mineral
Quartz (Chert/Quartzite variant)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, brown, and greyish; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (though massive/microcrystalline in this form); Specific gravity: approx. 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Tan, brown, and greyish
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, brown, and greyish; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (though massive/microcrystalline in this form); Specific gravity: approx. 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily through the chemical precipitation of silica or from the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. Most commonly found in sedimentary sequences or as veins in various rock types.
Uses & applications
Largely used as an abrasive, in glass manufacturing, or as construction aggregate. Historically used for making tools like scrapers and arrowheads due to its conchoidal fracture.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering.
Field identification & locations
Check for hardness by seeing if it scratches glass. Look for the characteristic conchoidal fracture (curved, shell-like breaks) and a lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds and gravel pits.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous