Ferruginous Quartz
A variety of Quartz
What is Ferruginous Quartz?
With a nearly even coloration of brown, yellow, and red tones, ferruginous Quartz tends to form crystals that are large and striking in appearance. They are often opaque. Though sometimes translucent, this type of quartz is never transparent. It gets its coloring from hematite or limonite.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.544-1.553
- Birefringence
- 0.009
- Pleochroism
- Weakly dichroic
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.013
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Ferruginous Quartz before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Ferruginous Quartz Localities Map
See where Ferruginous Quartz is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Ferruginous Quartz in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.
- ⚠️Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.
- ⚠️Ferruginous Quartz is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing ferruginous Quartz, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Red, yellow, orange, brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7
- Density
- 2.59 - 2.65 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO2
- Elements
- O, Si
Also Known As
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Ferruginous Quartz FAQs
How do I identify Ferruginous Quartz?
Ferruginous Quartz can be identified by its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, Red color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Ferruginous Quartz?
Ferruginous Quartz typically appears in Red, yellow, orange, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Ferruginous Quartz?
Ferruginous Quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
