mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide inclusions

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to opaque tan, orange, or rusty brown due to iron. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) crystal system. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

Explore Ferruginous Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as mass precipitates. The iron staining occurs when groundwater rich in iron oxide (limonite or hematite) coats or infiltrates the quartz crystals during or after formation.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative garden stones, in rough jewelry (cabs), and as pocket stones for collectors. High-quality clear quartz is used in electronics, but ferruginous varieties are mostly ornamental.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Iron Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' in metaphysical circles. This specific specimen appears to be a water-worn or weathered chunk of vein quartz, which has acquired a characteristic 'rusty' patina through oxidation.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7) and its lack of reaction to acid. It is commonly found in gravel pits, riverbeds, and mountainous regions worldwide. Collectors look for unique banding or internal iron dendrites.

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

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous