mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Limonite impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to creamy tan with reddish-brown or pinkish streaks; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when weathered); Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to creamy tan with reddish-brown or pinkish streaks
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when weathered)

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a secondary mineral in sedimentary environments. These rounded specimens are typically found as water-worn cobbles in riverbeds or coastal areas, often dating back millions of years to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative landscaping stone, in aquarium decor, as a popular specimen for beginner rock tumbling, and sometimes as a minor gemstone for organic-style jewelry.

Geological facts

The reddish-pink color is caused by the inclusion of iron oxides (like hematite) trapped during the crystal's growth or seeping into micro-fractures over time. It is often referred to as 'Hematoid Quartz' by collectors.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its superior hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its distinct waxy texture when wet. Commonly found in river gravels globally. Collectors should look for patterns of 'iron staining' that penetrate deep into the stone rather than just on the surface.

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