mineral
Quartz (Iron-stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous luster when fresh, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, various shades of reddish-brown and tan due to ferric oxide inclusions.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous luster when fresh, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, various shades of reddish-brown and tan due to ferric oxide inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent of igneous and metamorphic rocks; iron staining occurs through weathering and oxidation of nearby iron-bearing minerals.
Uses & applications
Industrial use in glassmaking and electronics; common in jewelry as semi-precious stones; widely collected by hobbyists.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron staining can give it colors ranging from pale yellow (citrine) to deep red or brown.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost every geological environment.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
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