Jacinto de Compostela Clay Included Quartz from Spain

These beautiful red quartz are commonly referred to as “Jacinto de Compostela”  after pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela,  carried them as talismans along their journey.  However they are NOT from Jacinto de Compostela… they are from Chela, Valencia, Spain! It used to be thought that "Jacinto"-type quartzes were colored by hematite, but it has been determined that the color is dominantly due to clay mineral inclusions. (Gil Marco, J., 2013)

Jacinto quartzes characteristically occur as "floaters" embedded in marl, or as inclusions in gypsum masses or, less commonly, aragonite crystals. The two common formations that can be found are: 

This gorgeous specimen will make a lovely addition to any collection, but especially for enthusiasts of included quartz varieties. Thank you for your business.