mineral

Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Iron Oxide (Fe2O3) inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, orange, reddish-brown, and translucent white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy when wet; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: ~2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Tan, orange, reddish-brown, and translucent white
Luster: Vitreous to waxy when wet

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where silica-rich fluids cooled and crystallized. The staining is caused by iron-rich groundwater or hematite/limonite inclusions that occurred during or after growth.

Uses & applications

Used primarily by lapidaries for tumbling or cabochons, and by collectors. High-quality clear quartz is used in electronics, but stained varieties are purely aesthetic or for education.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Hematoid Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' in metaphysical circles. The reddish-brown 'cracks' visible are actually iron oxide staining deep within the micro-fractures of the crystal.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass) and its characteristic conchoidal fracture. Look for the 'rusty' appearance combined with the transparency of quartz. Found globally in areas with volcanic or tectonic history.

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