mineral
Quartz Mineral
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and igneous magmas like pegmatites
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, glassware, abrasives, gemstones, and decorative items
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's surface
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and distinct crystal form when well-developed
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral