mineral

Quartz with Iron Oxide Inclusions

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Limonite coatings

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent grayish-white to tan, coated with yellowish-orange to brown iron oxides. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where silica-rich fluids precipitated in rock fractures or cavities, later exposed to weathering and iron-rich groundwater that deposited iron oxides (limonite/hematite) on the surface.

Uses & applications

Primarily collected as a raw mineral specimen. High-grade clean quartz is used in electronics, optics, and glassmaking, while rough coated specimens are popular for amateur rockhounding.

Geological facts

Iron oxide coatings give many quartz crystals a golden, rust, or orange hue, often sold under trade names like 'Tangerine Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' depending on the depth and color of the coating.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its scratch resistance (scratches glass easily, hard to scratch with steel), conchoidal fracture where exposed, and distinct yellowish-rust earthy coating. Commonly found in granite pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and stream beds.