mineral

Quartz with Iron Staining and Chlorite Inclusions

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness of 7; vitreous to greasy luster; trigonal crystal system; color ranges from milky white to translucent with yellowish-brown iron oxide surface staining and green chlorite inclusions; shell-like conchoidal fracture.

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal crystallization in igneous veins or metamorphic environments where silica-rich fluids cooled over long periods, allowing iron and chlorite trace elements to deposit within and on the quartz matrix.

Uses & applications

Primarily collected as a rockhounding specimen or decorative natural stone; high-purity quartz is used in optics, electronics, glassmaking, and abrasives.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Specimens like this often show surface weathering (iron rust/limonite stains) combined with internal mineral growths like green chlorite micro-crystals.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass and steel), lack of true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and milky white quartz body. Extremely common worldwide in riverbeds, gravels, and mountain regions.