Tangerine Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with hematite coating
Clear quartz coated with orange-red hematite, giving points a vivid tangerine color, mainly from Brazil.
- Mohs hardness
- 7
- Color
- Orange to reddish-orange over clear quartz
- Type
- crystal
Got a rock like this?
Identify any rock from a photo, free.
Overview
Tangerine quartz is clear or milky quartz coated with orange-to-red iron oxide (hematite), giving the crystals a vivid tangerine color. The coloring is a surface stain, so the quartz beneath is typically colorless.
Most tangerine quartz comes from Brazil, where iron-rich water deposits hematite on quartz points and clusters over time. The hue ranges from soft peach-orange to deep rusty red.
It is commonly seen as natural points, small clusters, and tumbled pieces and is popular in the metaphysical crystal trade.
Formation & geology
Tangerine quartz forms when iron-bearing groundwater flows over already-crystallized quartz, depositing a thin layer of hematite (iron oxide) on the surface. This is a near-surface, low-temperature staining process rather than coloration built into the crystal lattice.
Because the color is superficial, it can sometimes be gently scratched or partly removed, and the hue varies with how much iron coats each crystal.
The primary source is the Minas Gerais region of Brazil, with similar iron-stained quartz occurring elsewhere.
How to identify it
Look for quartz points or clusters with an orange to reddish-orange exterior and often a paler or colorless interior visible at chips and terminations. Hardness of the quartz is 7; it scratches glass, with a white streak and vitreous luster.
The orange coloring may sit only on the surface and can be abraded, revealing clear quartz beneath, a key clue.
Look-alikes: Golden healer quartz is yellower (limonite/goethite); carnelian and orange calcite are massive rather than crystalline points (and calcite is much softer, fizzing in acid). Tangerine quartz's combination of crystal form, quartz hardness, and surface hematite stain is distinctive.
Uses & significance
Tangerine quartz is sold mainly in the metaphysical and decorative market as natural points, clusters, and tumbled stones, and is set into pendants. Its bright color makes appealing display and specimen pieces.
It has no industrial use distinct from ordinary quartz.
Metaphysically it is associated with creativity, the sacral chakra, and emotional vitality, claims that are spiritual rather than scientific. Because the color is a surface coating, it should be handled gently and kept out of acids to preserve the tangerine hue.
Frequently asked questions
What makes tangerine quartz orange?
A surface coating of orange-red hematite (iron oxide) deposited by iron-rich water gives the quartz its tangerine color.
Will the color come off tangerine quartz?
Because the hematite is a surface stain, it can be scratched or partly removed with abrasion or acids, exposing the clear quartz underneath.
Where does tangerine quartz come from?
Most tangerine quartz is mined in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil.
Is tangerine quartz the same as citrine?
No. Citrine is yellow and colored within the crystal, while tangerine quartz is orange-red from an external hematite coating.
Tangerine Quartz guides
In-depth guides for identifying, valuing, and understanding Tangerine Quartz.
Tangerine Quartz identified by the community
Real specimens identified with Rock Identifier.
