mineral

Quartz Vein (Iron-stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with limonite/hematite staining

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to translucent with yellow-orange iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to translucent with yellow-orange iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 18, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where silica-rich fluids were injected into cracks of host rocks. The iron staining occurs post-formation through the oxidation of associated minerals like pyrite or from mineral-rich groundwater.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used for abrasive powders, glass making, and as a source of silicon for electronics. Iron-stained specimens are primarily of interest to amateur collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The yellow-orange 'rust' visible on this specimen is likely Limonite, which is often found coating quartz that has been exposed to weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Look for it in quartz veins cutting through igneous or metamorphic host rocks. It is a common indicator mineral for other deposits including gold.

Other mineral specimens

See all

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