mineral
Quartz (Crystal)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white (clear), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), 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 white (clear), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of magma or by precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in virtually all geological ages and environments.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), optics, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a popular gemstone for jewelry and metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied. It is also the primary component of most sand found in world deserts and beaches.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its characteristic hexagonal prism shape with striations. It is found globally, particularly in granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
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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