mineral

Red Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Smoky white with translucent deep red/brown inclusions, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified May 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions cooling in veins and cavities. The red coloration is typically caused by the oxidation of trapped iron minerals like hematite or goethite during formation. Most common in ancient metamorphic or igneous terrains.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary work for making cabochons, decorative carvings, and as a popular rough specimen for mineral collectors. Also used in metaphysical practices for grounding and vitality.

Geological facts

Also known as Ferruginous Quartz or Hematoid Quartz. The red color is not part of the quartz crystal lattice itself but is a separate mineral coating or internal inclusion that gives the appearance of a solid red stone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high hardness (cannot be scratched by steel) and glassy luster. Often found in riverbeds or mountain ranges with high iron content in the soil. Collectors should look for vibrant bands of red integrated with clear or milky quartz.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral