mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless/Transparent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in almost all geological environments and can be from any geological age.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing of glass and ceramics, jewelry (gemstones), and as decorative collector pieces.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties allow it to produce an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage (it breaks with a conchoidal fracture). It is found worldwide, especially in mountainous regions like Arkansas (USA), Brazil, and Madagascar.
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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
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous