mineral

Quartz geode fragment (likely amethyst/citrine-bearing)

Microcrystalline and crystalline quartz, SiO₂, with possible iron staining or amethyst coloration

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent brown-gold interior with white crystalline crust, vitreous luster, and uneven fracture. The white material may be chalcedony or druzy quartz; crystal habit is too small/irregular to confirm precisely from the image.

Identified August 27, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz geode fragment (likely amethyst/citrine-bearing)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline and crystalline quartz, SiO₂, with possible iron staining or amethyst coloration
Category: mineral
Identified: August 27, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small common fragment; $30–$100+ if unusually attractive, strongly crystalline, or verified as amethyst/citrine.

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 as silica-rich fluids filled a cavity in volcanic rock, depositing chalcedony and later quartz crystals. Such geodes commonly formed in Cenozoic basaltic volcanic environments, though exact age and locality cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative specimen, lapidary material, and collectible; attractive pieces may be polished or cut into jewelry. It has little industrial value at this small size.

Geological facts

The brown coloration may reflect iron oxides, smoky quartz, or lighting rather than true citrine. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining component of many geodes.

Field identification & locations

Look for a hard, glassy surface, conchoidal fracture, and crystals lining a cavity; quartz will scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, and the western United States.