sedimentary
Quartz Vein in Host Rock (likely Sandstone or Mudstone)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) within Sedimentary Matrix
Hardness: 7 (quartz) vs. 3-4 (matrix); Color: White/Translucent crystalline layers with orange-brown iron staining; Luster: Vitreous in veins, earthy in matrix; Structure: Microcrystalline and drusy quartz.
- Hardness
- 7 (quartz) vs
- Luster
- Vitreous in veins, earthy in matrix
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (quartz) vs. 3-4 (matrix); Color: White/Translucent crystalline layers with orange-brown iron staining; Luster: Vitreous in veins, earthy in matrix; Structure: Microcrystalline and drusy quartz.
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal precipitation where silica-rich fluids filled fractures in existing sedimentary rock, likely during the Paleozoic or Mesozoic eras. The orange color comes from iron oxide (limonite/hematite) weathering.
Uses & applications
Primarily of interest to mineral collectors or as decorative landscape stone; quartz itself is used in electronics and glass-making.
Geological facts
This specimen shows clear 'vuggy' development where crystals had space to grow in an open fissure. The layering represents multiple pulses of fluid deposition over geological time.
Field identification & locations
Identify by checking the hardness of the white crystals (they will scratch glass) and look for the characteristic 'vein' sandwich structure. Commonly found in areas with tectonic fracturing and groundwater circulation.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary