mineral
Quartz crystals on matrix
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal (often forms hexagonal prisms with pyramidal terminations); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless to white
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal (often forms hexagonal prisms with pyramidal terminations); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide range of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often precipitates from hydrothermal fluids into cavities and fractures.
Uses & applications
Collected for display; quartz is also used extensively in glassmaking, electronics (as oscillators), and construction materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. These specific specimens often form in vugs or geodes.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), six-sided crystal shape, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary