mineral

Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, likely brecciated quartz vein

Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly hematite and goethite; possibly limonite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: quartz ~7 Mohs; typically glassy to dull luster, white to gray-blue translucent areas, and reddish-brown porous coatings. Irregular fractures and cavities are more consistent with massive/brecciated quartz than visible crystal cleavage; iron oxides may be earthy and soft.

Hardness: quartz ~7 Mohs

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, likely brecciated quartz vein
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, chiefly hematite and goethite; possibly limonite
Category: mineral
Identified: August 18, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 as a common rough specimen; potentially $40–$100 if unusually attractive, locality-labeled, and strongly vuggy.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as silica-rich hydrothermal vein material, later fractured and oxidized by groundwater, producing hematite/goethite staining and vugs. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image and depends on its host formation.

Uses & applications

Quartz-rich material is used for aggregate, silica, and occasionally lapidary work; attractive pieces may be cut or displayed, though this specimen appears mainly of collector interest.

Geological facts

Blue-gray zones may be quartz, while the vivid rust colors indicate oxidation of iron-bearing minerals. A streak test and hardness test would help distinguish quartz from softer blue minerals or weathered ore.

Field identification & locations

Common in hydrothermal vein districts and oxidized metal-ore zones worldwide. Test unweathered areas: quartz should scratch glass, show no cleavage, and leave a white streak; avoid acid and confirm with specific gravity or laboratory analysis.