mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: Milky white, clear, gray, or yellowish, 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: Milky white, clear, gray, or yellowish, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators, quartz clocks), glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widespread minerals on Earth's continental crust and exhibits strong piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral