mineral
Quartz Vein in Host Rock
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Milky white to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures in crustal rocks. As the fluids cool, the minerals precipitate out and form 'veins'. This can occur across many geological eras.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as a gemstone or collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. Gold is frequently found associated with quartz veins in metamorphic and igneous terrains.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. Look for distinctive white bands cutting through darker, finer-grained host rocks like basalt or schist.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock