mineral
Quartz (Iron-stained or Orange Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent orange to tan; Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Translucent orange to tan
- Luster
- Vitreous/waxy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz (Iron-stained or Orange Quartz) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent orange to tan; Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cooling in veins or as massive deposits. The orange color is typically caused by inclusions or surface staining of iron oxides (hematite or limonite).
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work, jewelry, and as a decorative landscaping stone. Industrial quartz is used in glassmaking and electronics.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained varieties like this are often found in riverbeds where water has eroded and polished the specimen over time.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage planes. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and desert washes globally.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock