mineral
Tumbled translucent quartz or chalcedony
Silicon dioxide (SiO₂), likely quartz/chalcedony
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale honey-orange, translucent, and vitreous to waxy; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal (quartz) or microcrystalline fibrous (chalcedony) structure. The rounded shape and surface polish indicate tumbling.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Tumbled translucent quartz or chalcedony in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pale honey-orange, translucent, and vitreous to waxy; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal (quartz) or microcrystalline fibrous (chalcedony) structure. The rounded shape and surface polish indicate tumbling.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed when silica-rich fluids filled cavities or fractures in volcanic rock; age cannot be determined from the photograph and may range from millions to billions of years. The orange color may come from iron staining or inclusions.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative tumbled stone, cabochon, and low-cost jewelry material; quartz is also important in glass, electronics, and abrasives.
Geological facts
It may be mistaken for amber, glass, or orange calcite; quartz should scratch ordinary glass, while calcite is much softer. Strong internal sparkle or banding could indicate quartz crystal or agate.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, India, Mexico, and the United States. Confirm with a scratch test, lack of reaction to dilute acid, and examination for conchoidal fracture or microscopic banding.
