mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Limonite impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to reddish-brown
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites as silica-rich fluids cool. The orange staining occurs due to the precipitation of iron oxides (rust) like limonite or hematite into cracks during secondary weathering processes.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for landscape gardening, road base when found in bulk, or as a decorative specimen for beginner collectors and metaphysical use.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained quartz is often mistaken for gold-bearing ore because gold is frequently found in similar hydrothermal quartz veins.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. Look for the characteristic orange-brown 'rusty' coating on white crystalline surfaces. Found globally in almost any mountainous or geologically active region.

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