Rutile is named after Latin "rutilas" - golden red, alluding to its common colour, especially in transmitted light. Golden-coloured rutile typically occurs in a slender acicular form. The small needles of rutile found in gems cause an optical phenomenon known as asterism. Asterated gems are known as "star" gems (Star sapphire, Star rubies, etc.). Rutile has high refractive index and strong dispersion, it gives an adamantine lustre and a diamond-like appearance to its crystals. Extremely rarely, rutile also occurs as pure crystals that can be cut into gemstones.
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Rutile in Healing
Rutile is a mineral that often occurs as gold or silver colored needle-like inclusions in crystals such as quartz, giving rise to the popular name rutile quartz. Rutile by itself and in combination with other minerals has many spiritual and healing properties.
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