mineral

Quartz (specifically Milky or Clear Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white/translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless to white/translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white/translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages, often as one of the last minerals to crystallize.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied, which is why it's used in watches.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its conchoidal (shell-like) fracture pattern. It lacks cleavage planes. Found globally, especially in granite outcrops or riverbeds.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral