igneous
Quartz Vein in Greenstone
SiO2 hosted in metamorphosed basalt
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 for the white quartz portion and 5-6 for the host rock, vitreous luster on the quartz face, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 for the white quartz portion and 5-6 for the host rock, vitreous luster on the quartz face, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal fluid deposition filling fractures in older volcanic rock, completely consistent with the basaltic and quartz-rich geology of Washington state.
Uses & applications
Collected as a geological specimen or educational sample showcasing hydrothermal veining.
Geological facts
Quartz veins are common pathways for mineralized fluids containing gold and other precious metals in the Pacific Northwest.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by the stark contrast between milky white quartz and dark green-gray host rock. Common in regional river gravels.
