mineral

Iron-stained quartz (likely quartz-rich rock)

Quartz, SiO₂, with iron-oxide staining; exact specimen uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent tan-brown, rough and irregular, with a dull to vitreous luster. Quartz hardness is 7 Mohs; its crystals are trigonal and it has no cleavage, breaking with uneven to conchoidal fracture.

Identified September 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely silica-rich material stained by iron oxides during weathering or groundwater flow. The specimen’s geological age and precise formation setting cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; this rough piece is mainly suitable for collecting or lapidary evaluation.

Geological facts

Brown and ochre colors commonly come from hematite or goethite coatings or inclusions rather than the quartz itself.

Field identification & locations

Quartz is common worldwide; look for hardness greater than glass, lack of cleavage, and a glassy fresh fracture. The photo does not establish a specific locality or confirm that the piece is solid quartz.