mineral
Quartz Mineral
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to milky 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 milky white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is found in all types of rocks and across all geological eras.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction sand, and as a gemstone in jewelry.
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 dominates beach sand.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Commonly found worldwide in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and beach deposits.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral