mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Ferric Oxide inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Rusty orange, reddish-brown, and translucent white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Rusty orange, reddish-brown, and translucent white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or as primary minerals in igneous rocks. The reddish-orange staining is caused by iron oxide (limonite or hematite) leaching into the quartz fractures or being deposited during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative specimens, in landscaping, or as a source of high-purity silica in industrial applications if cleaned. Small clear pieces are sometimes used in lapidary work.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Iron Quartz' or 'Hematoid Quartz.' It is one of the most common mineral combinations on Earth because quartz and iron are extremely abundant in the crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass and steel) and its characteristic rusty staining that cannot be washed off easily. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountain ranges, and near mining sites globally.

Other mineral specimens

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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

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