mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 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 cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma or via hydrothermal precipitation in veins and cavities. It can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (as piezoelectric crystals), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as a gemstone), and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most beach sand.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its transparency, its ability to scratch glass (Mohs 7), and its characteristic conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Brazil and Arkansas, USA.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic