mineral

Iron-Stained Quartz (Quartzite / Chert)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Limonite inclusions

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to light brownish-orange with dark red/rust-colored iron oxide fractures; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: ~2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

Explore Iron-Stained Quartz (Quartzite / Chert) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed via hydrothermal precipitation or recrystallization of silica-rich fluids. Iron oxides infused into fractures during secondary weathering and groundwater flow. Found across various geological ages from Precambrian to recent sediment beds.

Uses & applications

Used primary for landscaping, lapidary tumbling, gemstone carving, and as general geological aggregate.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The reddish-brown veining is caused by trace amounts of iron oxides like hematite and limonite that seeped into microscopic fractures over thousands of years.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its ability to scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, irregular conchoidal fracture, and characteristic rusty iron staining along fractures. Extremely common along riverbeds, gravel pits, and mountainous regions worldwide.

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