mineral

Quartz on Matrix

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to milky white quartz attached to a greyish host rock (matrix); Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in hydrothermal veins where mineral-rich water cools and precipitates quartz inside cracks or cavities of a host rock. This specific specimen appears to be a small quartz vein or band that has broken off from its original sedimentary or igneous matrix.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, and electronics for its piezoelectric properties. This specific specimen is of interest to beginning collectors or as a river/beach find.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. Small pieces like this with a flat 'sandwich' appearance often indicate they formed in thin fissures between layers of harder rock.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass) and its resistance to weathering compared to the host rock. Look for it in areas with exposed bedrock or riverbed gravels.