mineral
Orange Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron inclusions
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Orange to honey-brown, Luster: Vitreous/glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Orange to honey-brown, Luster: Vitreous/glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, or as secondary deposits. The orange hue often comes from micro-inclusions of iron oxides like hematite or goethite during crystallization.
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone and jewelry industries, as a collection specimen, and occasionally in glass manufacturing or as an abrasive.
Geological facts
Orange quartz is often confused with Citrine; however, Citrine is technically color-zoned within the crystal structure, while common orange quartz often gets its color from surface coatings or internal fractures filled with iron.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (ability to scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Common in many environments including stream beds and granitic terrains.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
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