mineral
Quartz (Iron-Stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Dirty yellow-brown (due to iron oxide staining), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Dirty yellow-brown (due to iron oxide staining), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes or within igneous pegmatites. The yellow/brown color is a surface secondary coating of limonite or goethite (iron oxides) deposited by groundwater or weathering.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in construction (aggragate), glass manufacturing, and electronics when pure. Stained specimens are often collected by hobbyists or tumble-polished.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is colorless, but impurities and surface staining can create a rainbow of variations.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass) and its lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all geological environments, particularly streambeds and veins in bedrock.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary