igneous
Quartz-rich rock fragment
Likely granitic or granodioritic rock, composed chiefly of quartz and feldspar with possible mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall, rough gray-white fragment with a granular, mottled appearance. Exact hardness, crystal structure, and mineral proportions cannot be determined from the image; quartz is Mohs 7 and feldspar about 6.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Quartz-rich rock fragment in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Small, rough gray-white fragment with a granular, mottled appearance. Exact hardness, crystal structure, and mineral proportions cannot be determined from the image; quartz is Mohs 7 and feldspar about 6.
Formation & geological history
If granitic, it formed when silica-rich magma cooled slowly underground, allowing crystals to grow. Its geological age and specific formation environment cannot be identified from the image.
Uses & applications
Comparable material is used as crushed aggregate and building stone; this small, unclassified fragment has little practical or jewelry value.
Geological facts
Granite and granodiorite are distinguished partly by their proportions of quartz and feldspar, which require closer examination than the image allows.
Field identification & locations
Look for interlocking visible crystals and quartz’s glassy, hard grains; a fresh surface and mineral tests would help confirm the identification. Granitic rocks occur widely in continental crust worldwide.
