mineral
Quartz (Milky/Clear Variety)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/gray, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/gray, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Common in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites; ages range from billions of years to relatively recent.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as semi-precious stones), and electronics due to its piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Found globally in creek beds, mountains, and desert sands.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
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Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral