Rutile

Rutile

Found in Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rutile is a mineral composed primarily of titanium dioxide.

Rutile derives its name from the Latin rutilus (red) in reference to the deep red color observed in some specimens when viewed by transmitted light.

Physical properties of Rutile:

Chemical composition: TiO2

Crystal habit: acicular to prismatic

Crystal system: tetragonal

Hardness: 5.5 - 6.5

Luster: adamantine

Specific gravity: 4.23 - 5.5