mineral
Quartz (Grain)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. This specific grain likely weathered out of a parent rock like granite or sandstone.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (oscillators), abrasives, and as a primary component in building materials like concrete and mortar.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which has Slavic origins.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all geological environments; clear grains are extremely common in riverbeds and beaches.
More like this
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