mineral

Quartz (Milky or Clear fragment)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/cloudy, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/cloudy, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction sand, and as a gemstone in jewelry. Small fragments are often used for spiritual collection or educational displays.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is chemically very stable and resistant to weathering, which is why it often makes up the majority of beach sand.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), glassy luster, and lack of cleavage (it breaks into irregular, curved shards). Look for it in riverbeds or near granite outcrops.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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