mineral
Ferruginous Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide (Limonite/Hematite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with yellow, orange, and rusty brown staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with yellow, orange, and rusty brown staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The orange/brown staining is caused by secondary iron oxide minerals (like goethite or limonite) leaching into micro-fractures in the quartz over geological time.
Uses & applications
Primary source of silica for glass and electronics; common in lapidary work and as mineral specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Specimens with this specific golden-brown staining are often called 'Golden Healer Quartz' in metaphysical circles.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its ability to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and the characteristic rusty 'iron-stained' appearance. It is found globally, particularly in areas with high metamorphic or igneous activity.
