mineral
Quartz Boulder
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to milky with some iron staining (brownish patches). Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to milky with some iron staining (brownish patches)
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White to milky with some iron staining (brownish patches). Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, or as a primary constituent of various igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sands, electronics (piezoelectric quartz), and ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. It is extremely resistant to weathering, which is why it often survives as large boulders and pebbles while other minerals erode away.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological environment.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Septarian Pebble
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Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
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Schist
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