mineral

Quartz vein with specular hematite

Quartz (SiO₂) with hematite (Fe₂O₃), possibly minor goethite or iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent massive quartz has a glassy to vitreous luster and Mohs hardness 7; the black, highly reflective platy material is likely specular hematite, hardness about 5–6, with no obvious cleavage. Quartz is trigonal crystalline, while hematite is trigonal and commonly forms metallic micaceous plates.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely a hydrothermal quartz vein that precipitated from mineral-rich fluids moving through fractured host rock, with iron oxides deposited during later alteration or oxidation. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Quartz specimens are collected and used industrially in glass, ceramics, and electronics; hematite is an iron ore and is also used as a pigment and ornamental mineral. Attractive contrast specimens have modest collector value.

Geological facts

Specular hematite can appear silvery black and sparkle strongly when tilted in sunlight, unlike dull earthy hematite. The rusty brown coating is typical of oxidized iron minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by testing quartz’s hardness against glass and observing its lack of cleavage; hematite leaves a reddish-brown streak on unglazed porcelain. Common in hydrothermal veins, iron-rich alteration zones, and many mining districts worldwide.