mineral

Iron-rich quartz rock, possibly hematite/goethite-bearing quartz

Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Coarse, uneven granular specimen with translucent-to-gray quartz and rusty orange-brown metallic/earthy coatings. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs with vitreous luster; hematite/goethite inclusions are softer, opaque, and produce red-brown streaks. Exact identification requires streak, hardness, and analytical testing.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich quartz rock, possibly hematite/goethite-bearing quartz
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeO(OH))
Category: mineral
Identified: September 4, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small common specimen; $30–$100+ if crystals, unusual texture, or an identified locality are present.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by silica-rich hydrothermal veins or weathering-related mineralization, where iron-bearing fluids oxidized and stained quartz. Such assemblages range from ancient Precambrian veins to much younger weathering zones.

Uses & applications

Attractive pieces are collected as mineral specimens; iron-rich quartz may also be associated with iron-ore deposits. It has little direct industrial value unless part of a mineable iron or silica resource.

Geological facts

Rusty colors commonly result from oxidation rather than the primary mineral. A red-brown streak suggests hematite or goethite, while quartz leaves no streak and scratches glass.

Field identification & locations

Common in hydrothermal veins, oxidized ore zones, and iron-rich terrains worldwide. Test a clean edge for glass-scratching, use an unglazed porcelain streak plate, and inspect for six-sided quartz crystal faces or metallic hematite.