mineral
Iron-stained quartz
Quartz (SiO₂), likely with limonite/goethite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; translucent white to gray with yellow-orange iron staining, vitreous luster, irregular fracture, and no prominent cleavage. Crystals appear massive or poorly formed; specific gravity is about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent white to gray with yellow-orange iron staining, vitreous luster, irregular fracture, and no prominent cleavage. Crystals appear massive or poorly formed; specific gravity is about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz precipitated from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or grew in a mineral vein; later oxidation of iron-bearing impurities produced the orange coating. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive iron-stained pieces are mainly curiosities or low-cost mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Iron oxides such as limonite and goethite commonly create yellow, orange, and rust-red colors in quartz. The specimen may also be a small piece of quartz-bearing vein material rather than a single crystal.
Field identification & locations
Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and lack of cleavage; iron staining is often concentrated along fractures and surfaces. Quartz occurs worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and cavities.
