mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Rusty orange, reddish-brown, or yellowish-tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Rusty orange, reddish-brown, or yellowish-tan
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or within metamorphic and igneous rocks. The distinct orange color is caused by hematite or limonite staining or inclusions, often occurring as groundwater percolates through cracks in the quartz over geological time.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for cabochons and tumbled stones, as decorative garden rocks, and occasionally in metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Also known as iron quartz or 'Hematoid Quartz.' The iron oxide can be present as a thin coating on the outside or as internal inclusions that give the entire crystal a solid color.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and the characteristic rusty staining. It is frequently found in riverbeds, gravel pits, and areas with high iron content in the soil.

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