Baby & Larger Quartz Crystal Clusters – Victorian Goldfields: Specimen 23

Notable Features

This quartz crystal specimen weighs 499 g and measures approximately 120 × 60 × 80 mm (Width × Length × Height). It displays a Medium–High sulfide level, with clusters of baby quartz crystals alongside several larger ones, showing white and pink coloration.

Notable features include contrasting crystal sizes, delicate pink quartz highlights, and visible sulfide inclusions.

This specimen was photographed while wet to highlight crystal colors and details. If buyers wish to achieve a similar look, applying a light coat of mineral oil will enhance the appearance.

Sulfide Level

Medium–High – Sulfides are visible within the quartz clusters, likely including pyrite and arsenopyrite. Iron oxide staining adds color contrast.

See how we rate sulfide levels by visiting our FAQ section.

Mineral Assemblage

• Quartz – White and pink, forming baby and larger crystal clusters

• Pyrite – Flecks and small inclusions

• Chalcopyrite – [possible brassy inclusions]

• Arsenopyrite – Fine metallic specks

• Stibnite – [not evident]

• Tetrahedrite – [not evident]

• Iron oxides – Light staining among crystals

• Trace gold and silver (mostly refractory, with rare free gold possible)

Note: Not every specimen contains the full mineral assemblage above. Minerals may appear in varying amounts, and each specimen may only feature a subset. Each piece is unique and chosen for its visual appeal and geological character.

Geological Story

This specimen formed during the Silurian Period (~440–420 million years ago), when tectonic forces fractured submarine fan sediments in the Victorian Goldfields. Silica-rich hydrothermal fluids surged through these fractures and cooled slowly, crystallizing into quartz rather than the massive milky quartz common in Victoria.

Depending on conditions, the quartz developed as clusters of white and pink baby crystals with some larger ones, with sulfides such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, stibnite, and tetrahedrite deposited alongside. Over time, iron oxides added further color and contrast.

The Victorian Goldfields were historically mined for gold, silver, and antimony. While most of the precious metals are refractory and locked within sulfides, rare specimens containing visible free gold are known.

This specimen is not sold as “gold ore.” It is a collector’s specimen, chosen for its baby and larger quartz clusters, pink highlights, and medium–high sulfide content, and for its geological significance as a fragment of one of Australia’s most famous gold regions.