mineral
Iron-stained quartz vein fragment
Quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide staining, likely hematite and/or goethite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMostly milky, translucent quartz with a vitreous luster and rusty-red coatings or fractures. Quartz is Mohs 7, trigonal, and lacks cleavage; the small fragment’s specific gravity is not identifiable from the image.
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Physical properties
Mostly milky, translucent quartz with a vitreous luster and rusty-red coatings or fractures. Quartz is Mohs 7, trigonal, and lacks cleavage; the small fragment’s specific gravity is not identifiable from the image.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly precipitates from silica-rich fluids in fractures; later oxidation of iron-bearing minerals produces red-brown staining. The specimen’s age and exact formation setting cannot be determined from appearance alone.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and as a gemstone; this small stained fragment is mainly a collecting specimen.
Geological facts
Iron oxides can coat or fill fractures in quartz, creating vivid red patterns without changing the quartz’s basic composition.
Field identification & locations
Look for glassy, hard material that scratches ordinary glass and has no obvious cleavage; rusty seams suggest iron oxides. Quartz occurs worldwide in veins and many rock types.
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