mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white, 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: Colorless to white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. It occurs in almost all geological environments and across all ages, typically in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry (as a gemstone), and decorative carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering, which is why it is often the primary component of beach sand.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved, shell-like fractures). Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (Arkansas).
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous