metamorphic
Quartz Vein in Schist
Quartz (SiO2) in Mica Schist
Hardness: 7 (quartz) to 2-3 (mica/schist); Color: Milky white and dark gray/green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Foliated schist host with a non-foliated crystalline quartz vein; Specific Gravity: 2.65 - 2.8.
- Hardness
- 7 (quartz) to 2-3 (mica/schist)
- Color
- Milky white and dark gray/green
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (quartz) to 2-3 (mica/schist); Color: Milky white and dark gray/green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Foliated schist host with a non-foliated crystalline quartz vein; Specific Gravity: 2.65 - 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism where high heat and pressure aligned minerals into layers (schist). The white quartz formed later via hydrothermal activity, where mineral-rich hot water filled cracks in the rock and cooled into solid quartz.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a study specimen for geology students or as decorative garden stone/aggregate. High-quality quartz can be used in electronics, but this specimen is for collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is the most common mineral in the Earth's continental crust. These veins often serve as 'paths' for prospectors, as gold is frequently found associated with hydrothermal quartz veins in metamorphic host rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for distinct bands or layers (foliation) in the dark rock paired with a hard, white mineral that can scratch glass. Common in mountain ranges and areas with a history of tectonic activity.
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