mineral
Red Quartz (Iron-stained Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite/Iron Oxide inclusions
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to reddish-orange and brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to reddish-orange and brownish-red
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to reddish-orange and brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, or sedimentary deposits where silica-rich fluids crystallized and were stained or coated by iron oxides such as hematite or goethite.
Uses & applications
Used primary for lapidary work, decorative display specimens, mineral collecting, and metaphysical/healing practices.
Geological facts
The red coloration in quartz is almost always caused by microscopic traces of hematite (iron oxide) either included within the crystal growth layers or coating the surface.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its ability to scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, crystalline texture, and distinct reddish-orange iron staining on a white or clear quartz matrix. Commonly found in stream beds, gravel pits, and quartz veins worldwide.
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