mineral

Quartz (Iron-Stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Clear to white with orange/red surface staining. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Clear to white with orange/red surface staining
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly in igneous rocks like granite or hydrothermal veins. The orange coloration is due to the oxidation of iron (limonite or hematite) coating the surface or filling tiny fractures.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass making, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as an abrasive. While clear quartz is used in jewelry, iron-stained specimens are primarily for hobbyist collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained quartz is sometimes referred to as 'Hematoid Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' in metaphysical circles.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for the characteristic glassy luster under the surface staining. It is ubiquitous worldwide, especially in creek beds and mountain ranges.