mineral
Likely rough quartz fragment
Quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-stained or included quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall translucent honey-brown grain with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, lacks cleavage, and has specific gravity about 2.65. The brown color likely comes from iron-oxide staining or earthy inclusions, though the photo is insufficient for certainty.
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Physical properties
Small translucent honey-brown grain with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, lacks cleavage, and has specific gravity about 2.65. The brown color likely comes from iron-oxide staining or earthy inclusions, though the photo is insufficient for certainty.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, igneous melts, or sedimentary veins and can later weather into resistant fragments. Its age depends on the host rock and cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive transparent pieces may be sold as specimens or lapidary material.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and forms hexagonal crystals, although this fragment shows no complete crystal form.
Field identification & locations
Likely identification requires a glass-scratch test, checking for conchoidal fracture, and examining it with a loupe; it may also be iron-stained feldspar or calcite without testing. Quartz occurs worldwide in veins, granites, pegmatites, and sedimentary gravels.
