metamorphic
Quartz Vein in Schist / Gneiss Metamorphic Matrix
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) in metamorphic schist host rock
Hardness: Quartz is 7 on the Mohs scale, host rock varies from 3.5 to 6. Color: Off-white to translucent milky quartz with brownish-grey weathered metamorphic host matrix. Luster: Vitreous to greasy on quartz fractures; dull/silky on metamorphic matrix. Cleavage: None in quartz (conchoidal fracture);…
- Hardness
- Quartz is 7 on the Mohs scale, host rock varies from 3
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy on quartz fractures
Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties
Hardness: Quartz is 7 on the Mohs scale, host rock varies from 3.5 to 6. Color: Off-white to translucent milky quartz with brownish-grey weathered metamorphic host matrix. Luster: Vitreous to greasy on quartz fractures; dull/silky on metamorphic matrix. Cleavage: None in quartz (conchoidal fracture); strong foliation/planing in schist matrix.
Formation & geological history
Formed under high temperatures and pressures during regional metamorphism. Hydrothermal fluids rich in silica intruded fractures within surrounding schist or gneiss rock, precipitating coarse milky quartz veins.
Uses & applications
Used as decorative garden stones, landscape rocks, educational geological display specimens, and occasionally crushed for aggregate material.
Geological facts
Quartz veins are primary target areas for prospectors because gold and other precious metals frequently precipitate alongside quartz in hydrothermal fluids within metamorphic fracture zones.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the distinct contrast between the hard, vitreous, white milky quartz central band and the foliated, weathered schistose host rock along the margins. Commonly found in mountainous metamorphic terrains worldwide.
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