mineral

Quartz Crystal Cluster on Matrix

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to white/cloudy (milky quartz) with iron staining; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless to white/cloudy (milky quartz) with iron staining
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cooling in rock cavities, veins, or pegmatites. This specimen likely originated in a geode or a vein during the cooling of igneous or metamorphic rock bodies.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, quartz watches (piezoelectric properties), jewelry, and as a popular decorative specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which had its origin in Slavic languages meaning 'hard'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its six-sided crystal habits, and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally in almost all geological environments; common in mountain ranges and riverbeds.

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sedimentary

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Metamorphic

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Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

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Mineral/Rock

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous