mineral
Quartz with inclusions
SiO2
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Highly variable; clear, white, gray, black, brown, yellow, purple, pink. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Highly variable
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Highly variable; clear, white, gray, black, brown, yellow, purple, pink. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks, pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. Most common mineral on Earth's surface.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, watches, and jewelry. Collected for aesthetic value.
Geological facts
Quartz is highly resistant to weathering, making it a major component of sand.
Field identification & locations
Identified by hardness (scratches glass), vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide. Tip: Look for six-sided crystals or massive forms.
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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