mineral

Quartz vein in iron-stained host rock

Quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide staining; host rock uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen shows white to translucent, glassy quartz with reddish-brown iron staining and a rough, fractured texture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65; the host rock cannot be reliably identified visually here.

Identified September 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms when silica-rich fluids fill fractures and cool, with iron oxides later producing red-brown staining. The age and exact geological setting cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Quartz-bearing rock is collected as a specimen; quartz is also used in glass, electronics, and construction aggregates. This piece appears primarily of collector interest.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly breaks with curved, shell-like conchoidal fractures rather than cleaving along flat planes.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy white or translucent material that scratches glass and does not fizz in dilute acid; iron staining is common in weathered veins. Quartz veins occur in many rock types worldwide.