mineral
Quartz (Milky or Rough Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Off-white to pale yellow; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Off-white to pale yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Off-white to pale yellow; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily from cooling magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and can be found in rocks from virtually any geological era.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (oscillators), abrasives, construction as aggregate, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry when found in high quality.
Geological facts
Quartz is the source of the term 'crystal,' derived from the Greek word 'krystallos,' meaning ice, as ancient Greeks believed quartz was ice frozen so hard it would never melt.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in river beds, beaches, and mountainous outcrops globally.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous