mineral
Quartz (Milky/Iron-stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to brownish-yellow (due to iron staining), Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to brownish-yellow (due to iron staining), Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments; primarily from the cooling of magma or hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most stable minerals and can be hundreds of millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (as oscillators), glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and by collectors for its crystal varieties.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which may be of Slavic origin meaning 'hard'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it scratches glass easily) and its lack of cleavage. Common in riverbeds, mountains, and desert sands worldwide.
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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