igneous
Quartz Vein in Basalt
SiO2 filling in mafic volcanic rock
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale for quartz; vitreous luster with contrasting dark grey basalt and white to tan quartz.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale for quartz; vitreous luster with contrasting dark grey basalt and white to tan quartz.
Formation & geological history
Formed when hydrothermal silica-rich fluids crystallized inside fractures of cooling volcanic basalt over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily collected as a geological specimen or used for decorative landscape rock.
Geological facts
Differential weathering often causes the harder quartz inclusion to stand out in relief against the softer basalt host rock.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by the stark color contrast and hardness difference; commonly found in glaciated regions and volcanic terranes.
