mineral
Ferruginous Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide (Fe2O3) inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to rusty orange/brown due to iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to rusty orange/brown due to iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a secondary mineral in sedimentary environments. The orange/yellow coloration is caused by iron-rich fluids (limonite or hematite) permeating the quartz during or after formation.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a decorative landscape stone, for lapidary work (tumbling), and as a metaphysical healing crystal ('Golden Healer' in some circles).
Geological facts
The yellow-orange staining is often only on the surface or in micro-fractures; if soaked in an oxalic acid bath, the iron will dissolve, revealing the white or clear quartz underneath.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its high hardness (it will scratch glass) and its 'rusty' appearance. It is often found in areas with high iron content in the soil or bedrock.
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Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous