mineral
Included quartz (likely iron-oxide-bearing quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), with limonite/goethite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTransparent to translucent, colorless quartz with a brown-orange earthy inclusion; vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, Mohs hardness 7, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape appears tumbled or naturally water-worn.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Included quartz (likely iron-oxide-bearing quartz) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Transparent to translucent, colorless quartz with a brown-orange earthy inclusion; vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, Mohs hardness 7, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape appears tumbled or naturally water-worn.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallized from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or grew in cavities, while iron oxides/hydroxides formed later or were trapped during growth; exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image. Common host settings include veins, cavities, and weathered veins.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a collector or cabochon/tumbled stone; quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and construction aggregate.
Geological facts
The rusty inclusion is probably limonite or goethite rather than a separate crystal; iron staining commonly produces golden-brown, red, or orange inclusions in quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy transparency, hardness, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; iron-rich inclusions distinguish it from clear quartz. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal quartz veins.
