mineral

Quartz crystal cluster on matrix

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely iron-stained or included variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; transparent to translucent honey-gold crystals with vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and no cleavage. Crystals are trigonal, commonly forming hexagonal prisms with pointed terminations; dark brown matrix is likely iron-rich rock or iron oxide.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz precipitated from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cavity-filling veins, growing on older matrix; the exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a decorative, display, and collecting specimen; quartz also has major industrial uses in glass, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone. The small specimen has modest gem-collecting value.

Geological facts

The golden color may result from iron-oxide coatings or inclusions rather than intrinsic quartz color. Crystal faces and terminations are characteristic clues distinguishing quartz from calcite, which is softer and commonly rhombohedral.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness, glassy luster, hexagonal crystal habit, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; streak and acid testing can help exclude alternatives. Quartz clusters occur worldwide, notably Brazil, Madagascar, Arkansas, and the Alps.