Tangerine Quartz
Quartz var. Hematoid Quartz · Mineral Specimen / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically manifests as elongated hexagonal prisms terminated by rhombohedral faces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with Fe2O3 (Hematite/Iron Oxide) coatings/inclusions
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; formed as silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, with iron minerals precipitating on the surface or becoming trapped as the crystal grows
About This Crystal
A long, tapered prismatic crystal, approximately 9 cm in length. It exhibits a pale orange to rusty-red coloration due to iron oxide staining. The luster is vitreous (glass-like), and transparency ranges from transparent at the tip to translucent/opaque at the base due to internal fracturing.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Orange to reddish-brown; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (indistinct); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually none; Piezoelectric properties present.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Optic Sign: Uniaxial positive; Pleochroism: Weak/None; Doubly refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), Madagascar, and USA; commonly found in oxidized iron-rich environments
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (brittle but stable); lacks cleavage making it durable for most uses.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid hydrofluoric acid; iron coating can occasionally be stripped by harsh chemical cleaners or long-term acid exposure.
Rarity & Value
Common; value is determined by the intensity of the orange color, clarity of the underlying quartz, and preservation of the crystal point. Generally affordable.
Special Characteristics
Features a 'ferruginous' coating where iron oxide (Hematite or Limonite) has bonded to the surface; may show phantom growth layers if the iron was deposited during an intermediate growth stage.
Lore & History
Historically used as an ornamental stone. In metaphysical traditions, it is associated with the Sacral Chakra, believed to stimulate creativity, sexual energy, and emotional balance. These uses are based on cultural lore rather than scientific evidence.