mineral
Quartz (Smoky/Milky Variety)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Translucent grey to brownish-white, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Translucent grey to brownish-white, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Commonly forms in igneous rocks like granite through hydrothermal processes or within pegmatites. It can be found across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as semi-precious stones), and electronics due to its piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear, but impurities create colors like purple (amethyst) or grey (smoky quartz).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally in river beds, mountains, and desert sands.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary