mineral/hydrothermal

Quartz-bearing Ore (likely Gold-bearing Quartz)

Quartz (SiO2) with potential sulfide mineralization (Pyrite/Arsenopyrite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Quartz component); Color: Milky white, gray, with yellowish/brownish iron oxide stains; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms)

Hardness: 7 (Quartz component)
Color: Milky white, gray, with yellowish/brownish iron oxide stains
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified June 5, 2026More mineral/hydrothermal →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Quartz component); Color: Milky white, gray, with yellowish/brownish iron oxide stains; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms)

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through crustal fractures. Often associated with orogenic gold deposits or magmatic intrusions.

Uses & applications

Primarily mined for gold extraction if metal content is high. Also used as silica source or collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most common host rock for gold. The yellow staining often suggests the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals which frequently occur alongside precious metals.

Field identification & locations

Field identification involves checking for high hardness (scratches glass), presence of 'vuggy' or 'rusty' cavities (sulfide oxidation), and heavy specific gravity if metallic ores are present. Commonly found in mountainous or volcanic regions.