mineral
Iron-stained Quartz
Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide (SiO2 with Limonite/Hematite impurities)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Rusty orange, yellow-brown to reddish, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Rusty orange, yellow-brown to reddish, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a secondary deposit where water carrying dissolved silica and iron minerals precipitates into cracks in rocks. The orange color comes from iron-oxide staining on the surface or within fractures.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as garden stones, used in lapidary work for tumbled stones or cabochons, and sometimes used in lower-grade construction aggregate.
Geological facts
This specimen is often referred to as 'Golden Healer Quartz' in metaphysical circles. The iron staining acts as a natural pigment that can often be cleaned off using strong acids like oxalic acid.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), its conchoidal (glass-like) fracture, and the fact that the orange color is usually a coating or localized in cracks rather than consistent throughout the mineral body.
