mineral

Strawberry Quartz (Hematoid Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide with Hematite/Goethite inclusions (SiO2 + Fe2O3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale. Translucent pinkish-red to brownish-pink color with visible flecks or inclusions. Glassy to vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system (trigonal), no true cleavage, specific gravity of approx. 2.65.

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks where silica-rich fluids crystallize slowly in the presence of iron oxide minerals like hematite or lepidocrocite, which become trapped inside the growing quartz matrix.

Uses & applications

Popular for decorative carvings, polished tumbled stones, lapidary art, and fashion jewelry including beads, pendants, and wire-wrapped stones.

Geological facts

True natural strawberry quartz is relatively rare and was first discovered in Kazakhstan; however, many commercial samples are hematoid quartz or aventurine quartz featuring reddish hematite inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its quartz hardness (scratches glass) combined with fine, red-to-brown sparkling or speck-like inclusions distributed through a translucent quartz body. Commonly found in Russia, Brazil, Madagascar, and South Africa.