mineral

Iron-stained quartz pebble

Quartz (SiO₂), likely microcrystalline or massive quartz with goethite/limonite staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent gray, vitreous-to-waxy luster, irregular fracture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness about 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. Yellow-orange and brown patches are iron oxides or hydroxides, while the rounded shape suggests water or abrasion polishing.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallized from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within an igneous/metamorphic host, commonly during Precambrian to younger geological events; later weathering produced the iron staining and erosion rounded the specimen. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces may be sold as cabinet or lapidary specimens. This small specimen has limited commercial value unless provenance or unusual inclusions are established.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and forms in many environments, including veins, cavities, sedimentary deposits, and metamorphic rocks. Iron staining can mimic yellow or orange gemstone coloration without being citrine.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by hardness, translucent edges, glassy luster, and lack of cleavage; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common worldwide in quartz veins, stream gravels, and weathered rock deposits.