Lattice Quartz with Foitite Crest, Erongo Mountains Namibia

This Lattice Quartz with Foitite is a substantial specimen from the Erongo Mountains of Namibia, distinguished by its broad horizontal form and prominent central quartz formation. A large upright milky-white quartz crystal rises above a complex landscape of smaller interlocking crystals, creating a natural focal point. Beneath and between the quartz, darker Foitite-rich mineralisation forms contrasting patches and bands that add depth to the predominantly pale specimen.

Specimen Details

✓ Mineral: Lattice Quartz with Foitite
✓ Quartz Chemical Formula: SiO₂
✓ Foitite: Tourmaline-group mineral
✓ Locality: Erongo Mountains, Erongo Region, Namibia
✓ Geological Setting: Erongo granite and associated pegmatitic environment
✓ Geological Age: Cretaceous
✓ Quartz Colour: White to milky, with translucent to clearer areas
✓ Foitite Colour: Dark grey to black with reddish-brown areas
✓ Transparency: Translucent to locally transparent
✓ Crystal Habit: Interlocking lattice-like quartz crystals with prominent larger projecting crystals
✓ Associated Minerals: Foitite, feldspar and fine mineralisation
✓ Weight: 566 g
✓ Size: 137 × 75 × 85 mm
✓ Preparation: Cleaned
✓ Base: Natural flat base
✓ Display: Ready for display

The Lattice Quartz of Erongo

The Erongo Mountains are renowned for unusual quartz formations and complex mineral associations. Lattice Quartz, also known as Gitter Quartz, is particularly distinctive for its intricate three-dimensional arrangement of interlocking crystals.

The unusual structure develops through the intergrowth of quartz with earlier mineral phases, particularly feldspar. As associated minerals are altered or removed, quartz can remain as a complex framework, producing the characteristic lattice-like architecture seen in these Namibian specimens.

A Bold Central Quartz Formation

The most prominent feature of this specimen is the large upright quartz crystal at its centre, rising above a broad field of smaller crystals. Its softly translucent, milky appearance contrasts beautifully with the finer and clearer quartz crystals surrounding it.

Across the main body, numerous smaller quartz crystals create an intricate textured surface. Some are relatively clear and sharply defined, while others are more heavily included and softly translucent. Together they produce the complex layered appearance characteristic of this type of Erongo quartz.

Dark Foitite-rich mineralisation is particularly noticeable beneath and around the central crystal formation. Patches of dark grey, black and reddish-brown material break up the pale quartz and provide visual depth, while closer inspection reveals numerous small crystals growing through and around these mineral-rich areas.

The specimen has an appealing landscape-like composition, with the broad natural base forming a foundation for the elevated central quartz formation. Different viewing angles reveal additional crystal pockets and interlocking growth, making this a specimen that rewards close examination.

At 566 g and 137 mm across, it has a substantial presence while retaining the intricate crystal detail that makes Lattice Quartz so fascinating. The natural flat base also allows it to be positioned securely for display.

Care & Handling

Quartz has a hardness of approximately 7 on the Mohs scale, but the projecting crystals and complex interlocking structure can be vulnerable to impact. Handle carefully and avoid dropping or placing pressure on individual crystals.

With its commanding central quartz formation, extensive interlocking crystal growth and contrasting Foitite-rich mineralisation, this 566 g Erongo specimen has a distinctive natural architecture that makes it a fascinating centrepiece for a collection of Namibian minerals