mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Rusty orange, brown, or yellow-tan; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Rusty orange, brown, or yellow-tan
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified June 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Rusty orange, brown, or yellow-tan; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary environments where groundwater rich in iron minerals stains the quartz. It is found in deposits ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used primarily by collectors and in metaphysical practices. In large industrial quantities, generic quartz is used in glassmaking and abrasives.

Geological facts

The 'rusty' appearance is caused by hematite or goethite inclusions. It is often affectionately called 'Iron Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' in the gem trade.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and characteristic iron staining that does not wash off easily. Found worldwide, especially in gravel pits and mountain runoff.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral