mineral
Quartz (Iron-stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Limonite impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to reddish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Quartz forms from hydrothermal veins, cooling magma, and PEGMATITES. The reddish-brown staining is caused by secondary oxidation of iron minerals (hematite or limonite) that seeped into micro-fractures in the specimen over time.
Uses & applications
Used commercially as glass-making sand, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, as an abrasive, and in landscaping. Large, clean specimens are used in jewelry and lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Iron-stained quartz is often called 'Ferruginous Quartz' or 'Hematoid Quartz'.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for the reddish surface 'crust' or staining contrasting with white interior surfaces where chipped or broken. Found worldwide, especially in river beds and weathered rock outcrops.
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