mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 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, watches), glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost all rock types.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
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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