mineral
Quartz Mineral
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: Varies widely (often white, milky, or mottled with dark inclusions as seen in the specimen), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: Varies widely (often white, milky, or mottled with dark inclusions as seen in the specimen), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a common constituent of pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sandstones.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone or mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral