mineral

Quartz (Iron-stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with light brown or orange iron oxide staining; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified July 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. This specimen is likely a piece of vein quartz that has weathered out of its host rock over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a source of silica for glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative stone or landscaping material.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear, but iron oxide (limonite or hematite) frequently stains the surface and cracks, giving it a rusty or golden hue.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. It is ubiquitous in terrestrial environments, especially in creek beds and mountainous regions.