mineral

Tumbled amber-colored chalcedony or quartz

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; possibly iron-stained chalcedony or quartzite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, translucent honey-orange to brown, vitreous to waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. The rounded polished surface and internal rusty fractures/inclusions are consistent with tumbled quartz-family material, though the image alone cannot confirm the exact variety.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz precipitates from silica-rich fluids in cavities and fractures, or forms by silicification of older rocks; iron oxides can produce the orange-brown color. Such material ranges from ancient to relatively young depending on its host deposit.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, and ornamental stones; it has modest jewelry and collecting value.

Geological facts

It may be marketed as orange chalcedony, iron-stained quartz, or quartzite, and visual identification cannot reliably distinguish these names without hardness, streak, or microscopic testing.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, Uruguay, and the United States. A steel file should barely scratch it, while it should scratch glass; strong bubbles, very low hardness, or a resin smell would suggest amber or imitation material.