FMF - Friends of Minerals Forum, discussion and message board

[Jim Wilkinson]

The dark brown material in the upper part of the photo. In large boulder---area likely does not allow rock collecting

[James Catmur]

Jim

Is there any way you could do a few basic tests? Streak and hardness

James

[Bob Carnein]

The photo is a bit unclear, but it looks to me like iron-oxide staining on quartz. Staurolite usually occurs as well formed crystals (porphyroblasts) rather than irregular masses.

[Bob Morgan]

There is a great mineral society in Baltimore with several members who have collected extensively locally. I'm sure they will be of help.
It's the Baltimore, Maryland Chesapeake Bay Mineral Society
Meetings: 2nd Friday of the month, except July – August
19:30:00
Westchester Community Center, 2414 Westchester Ave, Ellicott City, MD 21043
Check out their web site for more contact information.

[Jim Wilkinson]

Thanks!