mineral
Quartz (Milky/Clear Variety)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 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)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
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
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Nephrite
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