mineral
Quartz Vein / Quartzite
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white to grey or translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white to grey or translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions precipitating in fractures within host rock, or through the metamorphism of sandstone into quartzite.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, silicon production, countertops, and gemstone carving.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it generates an electric charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Found worldwide in nearly all geological environments.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral