mineral

Quartz (Iron-stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to honey-brown due to iron oxide staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to honey-brown due to iron oxide staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to honey-brown due to iron oxide staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma; this specimen shows weathering and iron leaching from surrounding soil or water, creating the surface coloration.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative landscape stone or collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear, but impurities like iron can change its color significantly without changing its chemical structure.