mineral

Quartz (Iron-stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white with brown/yellow iron oxidation; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white with brown/yellow iron oxidation
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling magma. Iron staining occurs through secondary weathering and exposure to groundwater containing iron oxides.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative gravel or landscaping stone.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained quartz is often called 'limonite quartz' or 'golden quartz' when used in crystal healing contexts.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its inability to be scratched by steel, its conchoidal (glass-like) fracture, and the lack of visible cleavage planes. Found globally in almost all geological environments.