mineral

Quartz with Iron Staining

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white with orange-brown iron oxide; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Clear to white with orange-brown iron oxide
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white with orange-brown iron oxide; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cooling of pegmatitic magma. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust, found in all rock types and across many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (as oscillators), glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and chemical applications. Small rough specimens are primarily for basic collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear; the yellow/orange staining in this specimen is caused by Limonite or Goethite (hydrated iron oxides).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Common in river beds, mountain outcrops, and as veins in metamorphic/igneous rocks.