mineral
Quartz (Iron-stained Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white, translucent to transparent, with yellow/brown iron oxide staining; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal / Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white, translucent to transparent, with yellow/brown iron oxide staining; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal / Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sedimentary deposits through precipitation of silica-rich fluids.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics (piezoelectric crystals), glassmaking, abrasives, lapidary arts, jewelry, and mineral collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The yellow-orange iron staining on the surface is typically limonite or hematite deposited by weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like vitreous luster, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found virtually worldwide in quartz veins, gravel deposits, and granitic rocks.
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