mineral
Iron-stained Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide coating
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, and lack of cleavage with conchoidal fracture. Color ranges from clear or white to various shades of orange, yellow, and brown due to surface iron staining.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Iron-stained Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, and lack of cleavage with conchoidal fracture. Color ranges from clear or white to various shades of orange, yellow, and brown due to surface iron staining.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and sedimentary environments where silica-rich fluids precipitate quartz, often later coated by iron oxide groundwater seepage.
Uses & applications
Used in mineral collections, ornamental stone, lapidary arts, and industrial applications requiring high silica purity.
Geological facts
The orange and brown discoloration is typically caused by limonite or hematite staining, a very common weathering effect on surface quartz.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness scratching glass and its characteristic rusty iron staining; found globally in nearly all geological environments.
