mineral
Quartz (Smoky/Milky Variety)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 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.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock