Mineral in Sedimentary/Secondary host

Quartz in Limonite-rich Matrix

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Goethite/Limonite FeO(OH)·nH2O

Hardness: Quartz (7) vs Matrix (~4-5.5). Color: Colorless to white crystals in a rusty brown/yellow-orange matrix. Luster: Vitreous quartz crystals with earthy/dull matrix. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (quartz).

Hardness: Quartz (7) vs Matrix (~4-5
Luster: Vitreous quartz crystals with earthy/dull matrix

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral in sedimentary/secondary host →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal precipitation or secondary mineral growth within voids of iron-rich sedimentary or weathered rock zones. The iron-rich matrix (limonite) is often a result of the oxidation of iron-bearing sulfides.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for educational purposes, mineral collecting, and as a geological indicator of iron-rich deposits.

Geological facts

Limonite is not a true mineral but a field term for unidentified hydroxides of iron. Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the combination of hard, translucent hexagonal crystals protruding from a soft, staining, rusty-colored crust. Common in mineralized veins and weathering zones of ore bodies.

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Sandstone with Hydrothermal Quartz (SiO2)

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Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)

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Turquoise (set in silver jewelry)

Turquoise - CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate)

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Turquoise

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O

mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium [CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O]

mineral