mineral
Quartz (Agate/Chalcedony)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz (Agate/Chalcedony) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, cavities of volcanic rocks, and sedimentary environments through the deposition of silica-rich fluids over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry, decorative carvings, lapidary arts, and industrial applications due to its piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and comes in numerous varieties based on color and crystal habit.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic