mineral

Quartz-bearing altered rock, possibly iron-stained quartz vein

Quartz (SiO₂) in a feldspathic/sericitized host, with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The upper honey-colored material is likely drusy to granular quartz with a vitreous luster; quartz hardness is 7, has no cleavage, and is generally colorless but yellow-brown from iron oxides. The lower host appears pale, fine-grained, fractured, and altered, possibly granite, schist, or weathered pegmatite.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-bearing altered rock, possibly iron-stained quartz vein
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) in a feldspathic/sericitized host, with iron-oxide staining
Category: mineral
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$100+ if crystals are unusually bright, well formed, or locality-proven.

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 when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures in older host rock, later acquiring yellow-brown coloration through oxidation of iron-bearing minerals. Its precise age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz-bearing rock is mainly a collector specimen; quartz is important in glass, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone, while similar material may be lapidary-cut if sufficiently clear.

Geological facts

Visible sparkle may come from small quartz crystal faces rather than metallic minerals. The specimen is not confidently identifiable as citrine because the color may be surface iron staining or included iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, conchoidal fracture, scratch resistance against steel, and lack of cleavage; vinegar or acid testing is unnecessary. A locality label and fresh broken surface would greatly improve identification.