Tessin Habit

Depending on their origin, quartz crystals in the Tessin Habit are also called Pennine or Binntal Habit or, according to their shape, the Pointed or Steep Romboedric Habit. Because of the tapering towards the top of this habit is pronounced in varying degrees, it is also called Transitional Habit. The crystal surfaces are usually horizontally striated (grooved).

Often only single points without matrix are found. Beautiful specimens with two or more points are rare and accordingly very sought after.

Photo: Quartz (Ticino habit), Foppe Airolo TI, collection Felix Spahr; not for sale.