mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on Mohs scale; color varies from clear to white, yellow, or brown; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale; color varies from clear to white, yellow, or brown; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in wide varieties of geological environments, including igneous pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and carving.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and ubiquitous minerals found in the Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct conchoidal fracture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass due to its high hardness.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic