mineral

Iron-stained milky quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), likely massive vein quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to translucent with vitreous-to-waxy luster, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure. Yellow, orange, and brown patches are likely iron-oxide staining; the specimen appears massive rather than well crystallized.

Identified August 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Iron-stained milky quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids fill fractures and cool, commonly in igneous or metamorphic terranes; iron-bearing fluids later oxidize to produce limonite/goethite staining. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are sold as display specimens or occasionally cut for cabochons.

Geological facts

Quartz can scratch ordinary glass and is resistant to weathering. The pale yellow color is probably staining rather than citrine, which generally has a more uniform transparent yellow color.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness 7, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a glassy appearance; a steel knife should not scratch it. Common in hydrothermal veins worldwide, including Brazil, the United States, Madagascar, and Australia.