mineral

Polished brown mineral fragment, likely quartz-rich iron-stained material

Possibly quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide inclusions; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown to golden-brown, translucent at thin edges, with a glassy to resinous luster and irregular conchoidal-looking fracture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65; visible sparkles may be crystal faces or polish.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished brown mineral fragment, likely quartz-rich iron-stained material
Scientific name: Possibly quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide inclusions; exact identification is uncertain from the image
Category: mineral
Identified: August 8, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small common fragment; $20–$100 or more if it proves to be an attractive, well-polished collectible specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in a hydrothermal vein or silica-rich host rock, with brown coloration from hematite or goethite. Quartz commonly formed from mineral-rich fluids during many geological periods.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and construction; attractive iron-stained pieces are sold as cabinet specimens or lapidary material.

Geological facts

The specimen may alternatively be brown jasper, chalcedony, or an iron-rich sulfide, since the photograph does not show diagnostic crystals or texture clearly.

Field identification & locations

Test hardness against glass: quartz scratches it; inspect translucency and fracture under magnification. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and hydrothermal vein districts worldwide.