mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale, Color: typically clear to white, often with yellowish or brownish staining from iron oxides, Luster: vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: trigonal, Cleavage: poor/indistinct, Fracture: conchoidal.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale, Color: typically clear to white, often with yellowish or brownish staining from iron oxides, Luster: vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: trigonal, Cleavage: poor/indistinct, Fracture: conchoidal.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous (granite, pegmatites), sedimentary (sandstone), and metamorphic (quartzite) rocks. It precipitates from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (as oscillators), abrasives, construction materials, and as a gemstone or collectible.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It can form enormous crystals under the right conditions.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), glassy luster, and conchoidal fracture. Often found with iron staining, as seen in the yellowish hues of this specimen.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
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Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock