mineral
Tumbled honey-colored quartz (likely iron-stained quartzite)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); possibly quartz-rich quartzite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7; translucent yellow-brown color, vitreous to dull luster, massive granular texture, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural water abrasion.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7; translucent yellow-brown color, vitreous to dull luster, massive granular texture, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural water abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallized from silica-rich fluids or formed as a major component of quartzite during metamorphism; iron-oxide inclusions likely create the honey color. Quartz ranges from Precambrian to modern, so the exact age cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, lapidary material, aggregate, and source mineral in glass and electronics; attractive pieces may be used in cabochons or carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. The specimen may also be marketed as honey quartz, golden quartz, or iron-stained quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify with a scratch test: it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife; it lacks calcite’s acid reaction and rhombohedral cleavage. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, river gravels, and metamorphic terrains.
