Rock Identifier
Strawberry Quartz (or Hematoid Quartz) (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Hematite or Goethite) — mineral
mineral

Strawberry Quartz (or Hematoid Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Hematite or Goethite

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to reddish-pink with internal speckles; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness
7 (Mohs scale)
Color
Pink to reddish-pink with internal speckles
Luster
Vitreous
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to reddish-pink with internal speckles; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments when iron oxide (hematite) inclusions are trapped within growing quartz crystals. The inclusions typically give it its characteristic strawberry-like appearance.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), carving, and mineral collecting. It is popular in the metaphysical community.

Geological facts

True Strawberry Quartz from Kazakhstan is quite rare and expensive; many specimens on the commercial market are actually 'Hematoid Quartz' or 'Fire Quartz' that have been tumbled.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for small, needle-like or flaky red/brown inclusions within transparent or translucent quartz. Found in Kazakhstan, Brazil, and South Africa.