mineral

Likely iron-stained quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), with possible iron-oxide staining; identification from the photo is provisional

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-yellow to brown with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen’s rough surface and lighting make color and texture uncertain.

Identified October 11, 2026More mineral →

Explore Likely iron-stained quartz 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 crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities, or forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks; iron oxides can impart yellow-brown color. Its age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; this rough piece is chiefly a modest collector specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and breaks with a curved, glass-like conchoidal fracture.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and absence of cleavage; common worldwide in veins and many rock types. The image does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so a closer inspection would help confirm the ID.