mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to clear color, vitreous luster, hexagonal 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, white to clear color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often precipitating from hydrothermal solutions or crystallizing from silica-rich magma
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when compressed
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found worldwide in almost every geological setting
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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
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
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary