mineral

Weathered quartz-rich rock, likely iron-stained quartz vein material

Microcrystalline to coarse quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining and possible feldspar/mica inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 7 Mohs; tan, cream, and rusty brown; vitreous to earthy luster; irregular fracture, no obvious cleavage, and granular/interlocking texture. The rough surface and rusty coloration indicate weathering and limonite/goethite coatings.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered quartz-rich rock, likely iron-stained quartz vein material
Scientific name: Microcrystalline to coarse quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide staining and possible feldspar/mica inclusions
Category: mineral
Identified: August 29, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1-$15 for a common specimen; up to $20-$50 if especially attractive or locality-documented.

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 when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures, later weathering at or near the surface oxidized iron-bearing impurities. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz vein material is mainly a field and collector specimen; quartz is also used in glass, ceramics, electronics, and construction aggregate. This piece appears to have little commercial gemstone value.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly forms resistant knobs, veins, and float fragments; iron oxides can produce vivid yellow, orange, and brown colors. It may be associated with gold or sulfide minerals, but no gold can be confirmed visually.

Field identification & locations

Test with a steel file or knife: true quartz should resist scratching; glassy fracture surfaces and translucent edges support identification. Common in hydrothermal veins worldwide; typical hand specimens are worth about $1–$15, or $20–$50 if unusually attractive or locality-documented.