
mineral
Massive White Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Typically crystallizes from hydrothermal veins or as a late-stage mineral in cooling magma (pegmatites).
Uses & applications
Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as gemstones or decorative collection pieces.
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 often remains as sand on beaches.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for it in veins within granite or as rounded pebbles in stream beds. To clean, use mild soap and water.
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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
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