
mineral
Quartz (Small Fragment)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Colorless to milky white
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. This fragment appears to be a small quartz vein remnant or a grain of silica-rich rock deposited through erosion.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and jewelry/gemstones. Small raw fragments have no industrial value but are important geological markers.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering, which is why it often persists as sand or small pebbles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally in almost all geological settings, particularly in river beds, beaches, and mountain outcrops.
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