mineral

Likely quartz crystal with iron-oxide staining

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly included or coated with limonite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7; translucent to transparent with a brown-golden surface, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Quartz is trigonal and lacks cleavage; the iron-oxide coating produces the rusty coloration.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in a hydrothermal vein or cavity as silica-rich fluids cooled, with later oxidation staining or coating the crystal. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, electronics, abrasives, and ornamental specimens; attractive crystals may be sold as low-cost mineral specimens.

Geological facts

The visible brown material is probably limonite or goethite rather than the quartz itself. Crystal faces and conchoidal fractures are useful indicators, though the small image prevents definitive identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, geodes, pegmatites, and hydrothermal deposits worldwide. Confirm with a glass-scratch test, checking for vitreous luster, hardness, and—if exposed—six-sided prismatic crystal form.