mineral
Ferruginous Quartz
Ferruginous Quartz (Silicon Dioxide + Iron Oxide, SiO2 + Fe2O3)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65-2.73
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to reddish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65-2.73
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as sedimentary deposits where iron oxide (hematite or limonite) coats or includes within quartz crystals during growth.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a mineral specimen for collectors, decorative landscaping, and occasionally for healing crystal practices.
Geological facts
The red-orange color is caused by the presence of iron oxide (rust). When the iron is included inside the crystal, it is called hematoid quartz.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and the characteristic rusty orange staining on a white silica base. Commonly found in areas with high iron concentrations in the soil or bedrock.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
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Nephrite
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