mineral
Quartz (Common or Milky)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to milky white/translucent tan, Luster: Vitreous/glassy to waxy, 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/translucent tan, Luster: Vitreous/glassy to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal solutions in veins. This specimen appears water-worn or weathered, likely found in a riverbed or alluvial deposit. Quartz can form in almost any geological age.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as gemstones 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 often remains as pebbles long after other minerals have eroded.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass and cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all geological environments.
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Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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