mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color varies widely (clear, white, gray, purple, pink, yellow, brown). Vitreous (glassy) luster. Trigonal crystal system. Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color varies widely (clear, white, gray, purple, pink, yellow, brown). Vitreous (glassy) luster. Trigonal crystal system. Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as hydrothermal veins and sedimentary rocks (sandstone).
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, watches, glassmaking, abrasives, and as gemstones in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its characteristic conchoidal fracture, high hardness (scratches glass easily), and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost every rock type.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral