mineral

Tumbled amber-colored quartz/chalcedony

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-stained chalcedony or carnelian

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; translucent honey-brown to orange, with a waxy-to-glassy luster and no obvious cleavage. Rounded, polished surfaces and possible internal cloudiness are consistent with tumbled chalcedony; the photograph is insufficient for certainty.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled amber-colored quartz/chalcedony
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-stained chalcedony or carnelian
Category: mineral
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a small common tumbled piece; $10–$30 if unusually translucent, well-colored, or clearly identified as quality carnelian.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids fill cavities or fractures, later crystallizing as chalcedony; iron impurities can produce orange-brown color. Such material commonly formed in volcanic rocks during the Cenozoic or older geological periods.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, and decorative tumbled stones; common pieces generally have modest value.

Geological facts

A scratch test against ordinary steel or a streak test on unglazed porcelain can help distinguish quartz from softer amber or resin, but these tests may damage the specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, and the western United States. Inspect for quartz-like hardness, cool stone feel, and lack of amber’s electrostatic attraction; definitive identification may require refractive-index or specific-gravity testing.