metamorphic

Iron-stained quartz vein in altered host rock

Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, likely hematite and goethite; host rock uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rough, fractured outcrop with rusty red-brown staining and pale quartz-rich patches; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, and no cleavage. Iron oxides are softer to variable in hardness and commonly earthy or submetallic.

Identified September 26, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Iron-stained quartz vein in altered host rock in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Iron-stained quartz vein in altered host rock
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with iron oxides/hydroxides, likely hematite and goethite; host rock uncertain from the image
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Common rough material: about $0–$20; value depends on confirmed minerals, appearance, size, and provenance.

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-bearing fluids filled fractures, followed or accompanied by oxidation of iron-bearing minerals; the image alone cannot establish the host rock, age, or precise formation setting.

Uses & applications

Quartz veins are collected as specimens and may be explored for industrial quartz or associated ore minerals; iron oxides serve as pigments and iron ore where concentrated.

Geological facts

Rust-colored coatings commonly form as iron minerals weather near the surface. No definite precious-metal mineralization can be identified from this photograph.

Field identification & locations

Look for hard, glassy quartz that resists scratching with a steel knife, alongside rusty coatings or staining; confirm minerals with close inspection and simple tests. Quartz veins occur in many regions and rock types.