mineral

Iron-stained Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with Hematite/Limonite impurities (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-orange to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pinkish-orange to reddish-brown, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes or silica precipitation. The reddish-orange color is caused by iron oxide staining (Hematite or Limonite) that fills fractures or is included during growth.

Uses & applications

Used primarily by lapidaries as decorative stones, pocket stones, or for jewelry like wire-wraps. Quartz in general is used in electronics and glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

Iron-stained quartz is often called 'Ferruginous Quartz' or 'Hematoid Quartz'. It is one of the most common mineral varieties found on Earth's surface due to the abundance of both silica and iron.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), waxy to glassy luster, and the presence of red/orange streaks that follow internal fractures. It is commonly found in riverbeds and mountainous regions globally.

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