mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a primary component of granite and sandstone and precipitates from hydrothermal solutions.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasive materials, gemstones, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, after feldspar. Piezoelectric quartz is used in watches and electronic devices.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in nearly every type of rock formation.
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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
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral