Orange Quartz with Hematite inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale) for quartz. Color: Orange to reddish-orange due to hematite inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal system) for quartz, often forming prismatic crystals with pyramidal terminations. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.65 for quartz.

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous and metamorphic rocks. The orange color is due to microscopic inclusions of iron oxides, specifically hematite, which became incorporated into the quartz lattice during its growth. Geological Age: Varies widely, as quartz is a common and ancient mineral, found in rocks of all ages.

Primarily used as a collector's mineral specimen due to its aesthetic appeal. The orange color and sparkling druzy habit make it highly prized. Less commonly, clear quartz varieties are used in electronics for oscillators and filters, but this colored variety is valued for its beauty.

This specific type of quartz is often referred to as 'Tangerine Quartz', 'Ferruginous Quartz', or 'Hematoid Quartz' due to the distinctive orange-red coloring caused by iron (hematite) inclusions. It is distinct from Citrine, which gets its yellow/orange color from iron impurities within the crystal structure, often due to natural irradiation or heat treatment, rather than discrete inclusions.

To identify in the field: Look for its striking orange color and characteristic hexagonal crystal habit, often found as druzy coatings on a matrix rock. The crystals typically have sharp, pointed terminations. It can be found in various locations where quartz forms, particularly those with iron-rich geological environments. Notable occurrences for similar specimens include various localities across Brazil, Madagascar, and parts of the USA. The region of Chella, Valencia, mentioned in the image, is likely a specific mining locality where beautiful specimens like this are found.