mineral
Quartz with Iron Staining
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent with orange/brown staining, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent with orange/brown staining, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma. Iron oxide staining occurs later due to weathering and groundwater movement depositing rust on the surface and along fractures.
Uses & applications
Raw quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, and the petroleum industry. Also collected as mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The orange staining is common and often referred to as 'iron-stained quartz' or 'ferruginous quartz'.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide in almost all geological environments.
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