mineral
Ferruginous Quartz
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions (SiO2 + Fe2O3)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Rusty orange-red to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Rusty orange-red to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Rusty orange-red to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed when iron oxides like hematite or limonite coat or are included within quartz crystals during primary formation or via secondary hydrothermal staining. Commonly found in sedimentary deposits and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative lapidary material, for crystal healing specimen collecting, and occasionally as a source of iron if found in massive deposits.
Geological facts
Also known as 'Hematoid Quartz,' the red coloration is internal or a surface coating caused by iron oxide. It combines the properties of quartz and hematite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and its signature rusty red coloration which may be patchy or concentrated in certain crystal zones. Commonly found in iron-rich geological regions worldwide.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous