Baby Quartz Crystal Cluster – Victorian Goldfields: Specimen 20

Notable Features

This quartz crystal specimen weighs 221 g and measures approximately 65 × 60 × 40 mm (Width × Length × Height). It displays a Low sulfide level, with a delicate cluster of white and pink baby quartz crystals set against a brown brecciated host rock.

Notable features include fine quartz crystal growth, subtle pink coloration, and brecciated texture.

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

Low – Very limited sulfide mineralization visible. Trace pyrite or arsenopyrite may be present, but quartz crystal development is the dominant feature.

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

Mineral Assemblage

• Quartz – White and pink, forming small crystal clusters

• Pyrite – Trace, if present

• Chalcopyrite – [not evident]

• Arsenopyrite – [not evident]

• Stibnite – [not evident]

• Tetrahedrite – [not evident]

• Iron oxides – Brown host rock coloration

• 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 white and pink crystal clusters within brecciated host rock, 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 delicate baby quartz crystal clusters, pink highlights, and brecciated host rock, and for its geological significance as a fragment of one of Australia’s most famous gold regions.