mineral
Quartz (Clear Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: Indistinct (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: Indistinct (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in all types of geological environments and can be billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (as oscillators), glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and as a gemstone for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and hexagonal crystal habit. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges and riverbeds.
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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