igneous
Iron-stained quartz-rich rock
Likely milky quartz with iron-oxide staining, possibly quartz-rich pegmatite or quartz vein material
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMostly white to translucent quartz with rusty red-brown staining and patches of pale feldspar or other minerals. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, and no cleavage; the specimen’s irregular, coarse texture is consistent with a quartz-rich rock.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Iron-stained quartz-rich rock in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Mostly white to translucent quartz with rusty red-brown staining and patches of pale feldspar or other minerals. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, and no cleavage; the specimen’s irregular, coarse texture is consistent with a quartz-rich rock.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed as silica-rich fluid cooled in a fracture or as a late-stage pegmatitic intrusion; iron oxides later stained the surface. Exact age and setting cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Quartz-rich material is used for silica, aggregate, and decorative stone; this rough, iron-stained piece is mainly suitable for collecting or display rather than fine jewelry.
Geological facts
The rusty coloration commonly comes from hematite or goethite coating or staining quartz, rather than from the quartz itself.
Field identification & locations
Look for hard, glassy white grains that scratch glass and resist a steel blade; rusty patches and irregular fractures support iron-stained quartz. Quartz veins occur worldwide, but locality cannot be inferred from appearance alone.
