metamorphic

Iron-stained quartz/quartzite fragment

Quartz (SiO₂), likely in quartzite or silicified rock with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen is opaque to translucent brown-orange with white, granular crystalline areas and a dull to slightly glassy luster. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65; the iron staining accounts for the reddish-brown color.

Identified September 21, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when silica-rich material recrystallized into quartzite or when rock was silicified, followed by weathering and impregnation by hematite/goethite. The exact age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartzite is used as aggregate, road stone, building stone, and occasionally decorative material; attractive polished pieces may be used as ornaments, but this fragment appears mainly of collecting interest.

Geological facts

The white zones are probably quartz, while the red-brown coloration is iron oxide rather than a separate red mineral. A steel file should not easily scratch fresh quartz surfaces.

Field identification & locations

Look for a very hard, gritty or glassy texture, white quartz grains, and red-brown iron staining; test with a steel knife or glass, though avoid damaging the specimen. Similar material occurs worldwide in weathered quartz veins and quartzite outcrops.