mineral

Iron-stained milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), colored by iron-oxide/hydroxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mostly opaque to translucent white quartz with orange-brown staining and a vitreous to dull luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The image alone cannot confirm the exact material or hardness.

Identified October 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms in hydrothermal veins and silica-rich cavities; iron compounds can stain it during or after formation. Its age and precise geological setting cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and decorative objects; this rough, stained piece is mainly suitable for collecting or crafts.

Geological facts

The orange coloration is likely from iron oxides such as goethite or hematite rather than a separate orange quartz variety.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, irregular curved fracture, and hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass; common in quartz veins worldwide. The specimen’s identification is tentative from the photo.