metamorphic
Tumbled orange aventurine (likely orange quartzite)
Quartz-rich quartzite, mainly SiO₂; orange color likely from iron-oxide inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPolished, opaque orange-brown with a vitreous to slightly sugary sparkle. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity near 2.65; exact identification from appearance alone is uncertain.
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Physical properties
Polished, opaque orange-brown with a vitreous to slightly sugary sparkle. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity near 2.65; exact identification from appearance alone is uncertain.
Formation & geological history
Quartzite forms when quartz-rich sandstone is recrystallized by heat and pressure; iron oxides can impart orange coloration. Formation ages vary widely with the source deposit.
Uses & applications
Used for tumbling, display, beads, and decorative objects; quartzite is also used as building and paving stone.
Geological facts
The smooth shape and gloss come from mechanical tumbling, not natural crystal faces.
Field identification & locations
Look for hardness near 7, a granular quartz texture, and no cleavage; orange jasper or feldspar can look similar. Quartzite occurs worldwide, including Brazil, India, and the United States.
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