mineral

Tumbled or naturally weathered quartz-rich stone, possibly iron-stained quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), with yellow-brown iron-oxide staining; exact identification is uncertain from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7, vitreous to waxy luster, translucent amber-brown coloration, and no obvious cleavage; the rough gray-brown surface may be matrix or weathering rind. Crystal structure is trigonal, though individual crystal form is not visible.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled or naturally weathered quartz-rich stone, possibly iron-stained quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Tumbled or naturally weathered quartz-rich stone, possibly iron-stained quartz
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), with yellow-brown iron-oxide staining; exact identification is uncertain from the photograph
Category: mineral
Identified: August 23, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a common piece; up to $10–$30 if unusually transparent or well formed

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

Likely formed in a hydrothermal vein or weathered quartz-bearing rock; iron minerals oxidized to produce the yellow-brown coating. Its geological age cannot be determined visually and depends on its source deposit.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and collecting; attractive translucent pieces may be sold as specimens or informal gemstones. This small irregular piece has limited commercial value.

Geological facts

A steel file should generally scratch glass only if the specimen is quartz-rich, while a steel knife should not scratch it. Yellow coloration may result from limonite/goethite rather than naturally yellow quartz (citrine).

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, stream gravels, and weathered igneous or metamorphic terrains worldwide; test with hardness, streak, and close inspection for quartz crystal faces. Estimated value: $1–$10 for a common piece, occasionally $10–$30 if unusually transparent or well formed.