mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-orange to rusty brown; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow-orange to rusty brown
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow-orange to rusty brown; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed when iron oxides (like limonite or hematite) are included within quartz crystals during growth or stain the surface of quartz through groundwater infiltration. This occurs in hydrothermal veins or as a result of chemical weathering.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a decorative stone for aquariums, landscaping, and mineral collections. Sometimes used in metaphysical practices as 'healer's gold' or 'hematoid quartz'.

Geological facts

The orange-brown color is caused by trace amounts of limonite, goethite, or hematite. It is often found in riverbeds where the mineral has been tumbled and polished naturally by water movement.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic quartz hardness (it will scratch glass) combined with a rusty, stained appearance that cannot be washed off. Commonly found in areas with iron-rich soil or near sedimentary iron formations.

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