Rock Identifier
Tumbled cream chalcedony or quartz (Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; possibly iron-stained chalcedony) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled cream chalcedony or quartz

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; possibly iron-stained chalcedony

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque to faintly translucent cream-yellow with brown iron-oxide inclusions, vitreous to waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. The smooth rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural water abrasion.

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Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque to faintly translucent cream-yellow with brown iron-oxide inclusions, vitreous to waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. The smooth rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural water abrasion.

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich groundwater deposited microcrystalline quartz in cavities or fractures, with later iron staining producing the brown patches; exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, metaphysical collectibles, and ornamental pieces; not generally valuable as gem material unless pattern, translucency, or provenance is exceptional.

Geological facts

Likely candidates include cream chalcedony, milky quartz, or iron-stained jasper; visual identification alone cannot distinguish them reliably.

Field identification & locations

Test hardness against glass (it should scratch glass), inspect translucency at the edges, and use a specific-gravity or streak test for confirmation; common worldwide, especially in volcanic cavities and silica-rich sedimentary settings.