Gold-bearing Quartz with Iron Oxides

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 (Quartz). Color: White milky quartz with orange/brown iron staining and metallic grey/gold sulfides. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Structure: Massive/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal. Specific Gravity: 2.65 for quartz base.

Formation & Geological History

Formed in hydrothermal veins where mineral-rich hot fluids circulate through fractures in the crust. The iron staining (gossan) is the result of weathered iron-bearing sulfide minerals like pyrite.

Uses & Applications

Primary source for gold mining; specimen collecting for prospecting research.

Geological Facts

This type of rock is often called 'rusty quartz' or 'honeycomb quartz' by prospectors and is a major indicator of potential gold mineralization in lode deposits.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by looking for 'vuggy' or porous textures with heavy iron staining (rust). Often found in mountainous regions near fault lines or prehistoric volcanic activity.

Identified on: 5/6/2026

Mode: Standard