mineral
Iron-Stained Quartz (Red/Hematoid Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Goethite inclusions
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to clear with reddish-brown, iron oxide surface staining and internal fracturing; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to clear with reddish-brown, iron oxide surface staining and internal fracturing; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the precipitation of silica-rich fluids. The distinct red and brown discoloration is due to secondary iron oxide (hematite or goethite) coating and penetrating fissures within the quartz matrix.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative mineral specimens, in lapidary work, landscape accents, and by crystal collectors. High-purity quartz is used in electronics and glassmaking, though iron-stained varieties are less commercially pure.
Geological facts
Iron-stained quartz, often called hematoid quartz or ferruginous quartz, gets its dramatic reddish hues from natural iron oxides. These coatings can form during the initial crystallization or millions of years later as iron-rich groundwater percolates through rock fractures.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, lack of cleavage, and uneven reddish-brown weathering rust along fractures. Commonly found worldwide in mountain ranges, stream beds, and gravel deposits.
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