mineral

Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, possibly brecciated jasper or chalcedony

Quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide minerals, likely limonite/goethite; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to orange coloration, earthy to waxy luster, translucent amber edges, and a granular/crystalline white vein. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65; iron oxides cause the rusty color.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-stained quartz-rich rock, possibly brecciated jasper or chalcedony
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide minerals, likely limonite/goethite; exact identification is uncertain from the image
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 as a common hand specimen; $40–$100 or more if unusually attractive, polished, or locality-documented.

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 when silica-rich fluids deposited quartz or chalcedony in fractures, followed by oxidation and staining by iron-bearing groundwater. The specimen’s geological age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a decorative or lapidary material, especially when polished; iron-rich quartz varieties are also collected as cabinet specimens. Commercial value is generally modest.

Geological facts

The orange-brown zones may be limonite or goethite, while the white areas appear quartz or chalcedony. A steel file should not scratch fresh quartz, but a streak test may help distinguish iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Common in hydrothermal veins, weathered volcanic terrain, and oxidized ore zones worldwide. Look for glassy or waxy fracture, quartz hardness, and reddish-yellow streaking; acid testing is not diagnostic.