mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, vitreous 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, typically white or colorless, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, frequently crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma, as well as accumulating in sedimentary environments through weathering.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, precision instruments, gemstones, and abrasive materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust, and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly all rock types.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
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