mineral
Quartz Geode or Nodular Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) in Host Matrix
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: translucent white to tan; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- translucent white to tan
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz Geode or Nodular Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: translucent white to tan; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed by mineral-rich hydrothermal fluids filling cavities or bubbles in volcanic or sedimentary host rock. As the water evaporates or cools, silica precipitates out, slowly growing crystals inward.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for collecting, decorative display, holistic practices, and educational purposes. Pure quartz is used in glassmaking and electronics.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's crust. Geodes are essentially time capsules that can take millions of years to grow their internal crystals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for rounded, knobby stones that feel lighter than they look (if hollow) or show translucent glassy patches compared to the dull crust. Commonly found in desert regions or dry riverbeds.
More like this
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
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock