mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: white, translucent, to milky. Luster: vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: indistinct. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- white, translucent, to milky
- Luster
- vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: white, translucent, to milky. Luster: vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: indistinct. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich magmas or hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and as a gemstone or ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust. Milky quartz gets its color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal formation.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and outcroppings worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary