mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: White, milky, or colorless, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: White, milky, or colorless, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, watches, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found globally in almost every rock type.
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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
sedimentary
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