mineral

Gold-bearing quartz or iron-stained quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly with pyrite or native gold inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tumbled, rounded specimen with translucent gray-white quartz, rusty brown iron-oxide staining, and brassy metallic-looking grains. Quartz hardness is Mohs 7, vitreous luster, no cleavage, and hexagonal crystal structure; the apparent gold cannot be confirmed visually.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in a hydrothermal quartz vein, where silica-bearing fluids deposited quartz and sulfide minerals in fractures; later weathering produced iron staining. Geological age depends on its source locality, commonly Paleozoic to Precambrian in gold-bearing terrains.

Uses & applications

Quartz specimens are collected and used for silica, glass, and industrial abrasives; gold, if present, has monetary value. Attractive pieces may be sold as lapidary or mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Brassy pyrite (“fool’s gold”) is harder and more brittle than gold, while native gold is very soft, malleable, and leaves a yellow streak. A hardness, streak, density, or acid test is needed for reliable identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in hydrothermal-vein districts worldwide, including California, Nevada, Australia, and Canada. Gold is malleable and does not crumble; pyrite commonly forms sharp cubic crystals and gives a dark greenish-black streak.