mineral
Quartz (Small Grains)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear to white/milky, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear to white/milky, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the crystallization of molten magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is a major component of igneous rocks like granite and sedimentary rocks like sandstone.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, watches, and as a gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Found virtually worldwide in riverbeds, mountains, and beaches.
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