mineral

Tumbled quartz pebble, likely iron-stained quartz or citrine

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly ferruginous quartz or pale citrine

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-brown with vitreous luster and brown iron-oxide inclusions. Quartz is trigonal, has no cleavage, and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-brown with vitreous luster and brown iron-oxide inclusions. Quartz is trigonal, has no cleavage, and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous melts; iron staining commonly develops later through weathering. The specimen is tumbled and polished, so its precise geological age and source cannot be determined.

Uses & applications

Used for lapidary objects, inexpensive jewelry, ornaments, and mineral collecting; gem-quality citrine can be more valuable.

Geological facts

The brown coloration is more likely limonite/goethite staining or inclusions than true citrine coloration. Quartz may scratch ordinary steel or glass, though testing a polished specimen can cause damage.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz-bearing veins, granites, pegmatites, and alluvial gravels worldwide. Confirm with hardness, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; a gemological test is needed to distinguish citrine from stained quartz.