mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. Often found in pegmatites, volcanic rocks, and sedimentary environments where silica-rich fluids permeate cracks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators), optics, glassmaking, sandpaper, jewelry (as semi-precious stones), and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its six-sided prismatic shape with pointed terminations, and lack of true cleavage. Commonly found in mountainous regions globally, notably Arkansas (USA) and Brazil.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous