Mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Generally white to translucent in massive form, often with iron staining (tan/brown). Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Fracture: Conchoidal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Generally white to translucent in massive form, often with iron staining (tan/brown). Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Fracture: Conchoidal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. Occurs in almost all geological environments and is a major constituent of many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in glassmaking, construction, electronics (oscillators), abrasives, and as a gemstone or ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential in watches and radios.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Extremely common worldwide.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Biotite Schist (Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/9ca564b5-bc87-402b-965a-69b21f9aa6bf-thumbnail.jpg)
Biotite Schist
Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]
metamorphic