Rutile (or rutilated) quartz is clear or
smoky quartz with inclusions of rutile crystals. Rutile is the mineral name for natural crystals of titanium dioxide. Rutile is best known for its affect on gemstones such as
star sapphire and
tiger's eye, where microscopic rutile crystals bundle so tightly that they bend light into band and star patterns.
While most varieties of transparent quartz are valued most when they show no inclusions, rutilated quartz is valued specifically for the lovely patterns formed by the delicate golden needles of rutile inside it.
Rutile (or rutilated) topaz is colorless topaz with inclusions that look like rutile crystals, similar to rutilated quartz. However, studies have shown that the inclusions which look like rutile needles are, in fact, limonite staining in thin channels in the topaz. This is why the inclusions in so-called rutilated topaz tend to be less dense than in
rutilated quartz.
Shop from a wide variety of rutile gemstones in beautiful colors including brown, golden, red and black. Choose from faceted and cabochon rutile gems, including calibrated sized single gems, matched pairs and gem lots by using the tick boxes at the top of the page. All photos are of actual gemstones that are available and ready to ship.