mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale pink/orange to white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale pink/orange to white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in all types of rocks (igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary) from silica-rich solutions or magmas over a wide range of geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, glassmaking, construction, jewelry, and crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface and comes in many varieties depending on impurities (e.g., rose quartz, amethyst).
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage (conchoidal fracture), and vitreous luster. Commonly found 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
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Mineral Sand (Heavy Mineral Sand Concentrate)
Placer deposit concentrate containing minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and magnetite
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous