mineral

Orange Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale orange to peachy-tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale orange to peachy-tan
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale orange to peachy-tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions in veins or within igneous rock cavities. The orange tint is usually caused by traces of hematite or limonite (iron oxides) during formation.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons or carvings, and highly popular in the metaphysical community as 'healing crystals.' Low-grade quartz is used in construction and glassmaking.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. While often called 'Tangerine Quartz' in the crystal trade when the coating is exterior, internal orange coloring is usually just referred to as ferruginous quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife (hardness 7), its lack of cleavage planes, and its distinctive glassy texture. It is found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.

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