mineral
Quartz crystal, likely iron-stained quartz
Quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectA small, translucent, pale brown-to-clear crystal with vitreous luster and a roughly hexagonal prism/point. Mohs hardness 7; trigonal crystal system; no cleavage, with conchoidal fracture; specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
A small, translucent, pale brown-to-clear crystal with vitreous luster and a roughly hexagonal prism/point. Mohs hardness 7; trigonal crystal system; no cleavage, with conchoidal fracture; specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities, often in igneous or metamorphic rocks; brown coloration may come from iron-oxide staining. Quartz occurs across many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and as a gemstone or mineral-collection specimen.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and its crystals commonly develop six-sided prisms with pointed terminations.
Field identification & locations
Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and absence of cleavage; the small specimen’s exact locality and formation cannot be determined from the image.
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Undetermined; the image is too blurry for reliable identification
mineral