mineral

Iron-stained quartz with possible mica

Quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining and possible mica or feldspar inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rough specimen with translucent gray-white quartz, rusty orange-brown staining, and uneven fracture; quartz is Mohs 7, vitreous, and trigonal. The image is not sufficient to confirm the inclusions or exact mineral identity.

Identified September 29, 2026More mineral →

Explore Iron-stained quartz with possible mica in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms in hydrothermal veins and fractures as silica-rich fluids cool; iron oxides can stain it later. The specimen’s age and precise formation environment cannot be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Quartz is widely used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; this small, irregular piece is mainly suitable for a collection.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and has no cleavage, typically breaking with a curved or irregular fracture.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster and hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass; rusty color may come from iron oxides. Quartz occurs worldwide in veins and many rock types.