mineral

Milky Quartz with Iron Staining

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white with reddish-brown iron oxide; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white with reddish-brown iron oxide
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white with reddish-brown iron oxide; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a late-stage crystallization in igneous rocks. The reddish tint is due to secondary iron oxide staining or inclusions (limonite/hematite) deposited by groundwater.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative landscape stone, in glass manufacturing, or as a pocket stone for collectors. High-purity quartz is used in electronics and optics.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained quartz is colloquially known as 'Golden Healer' in the metaphysical community, though geologically it is simply stained quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. Commonly found in stream beds, gravel pits, and mountainous regions worldwide. Collectors can clean the iron staining off with oxalic acid if they prefer the white base.

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