mineral
Quartz Vein in Host Rock
Crystalline Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) in Igneous/Metamorphic Matrix
Hardness: 7 (Quartz); Color: White/Translucent vein in grey/greenish host rock; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 (Quartz)
- Color
- White/Translucent vein in grey/greenish host rock
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Quartz); Color: White/Translucent vein in grey/greenish host rock; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal activity where silica-rich hot fluids circulate through fractures in existing rock, cooling to deposit quartz crystals over thousands of years. Usually found in orogenic belts.
Uses & applications
Primary source of silica for glass manufacturing, electronics, and construction; white quartz is also used for decorative landscaping and as an indicator for gold prospecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Vein quartz often acts as a host for precious metals like gold and silver which are deposited by the same hydrothermal fluids.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and white, milky appearance against a darker, often greenish chloritic or basaltic host rock. Found globally in mountainous regions.
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