mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, white or colorless (though can be various colors with impurities), conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, white or colorless (though can be various colors with impurities), conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or magma cooling.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, watches, glassmaking, abrasive materials, gemstone carving, and decorative items.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in virtually every rock type.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral