mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 7; varies in color from clear and white to smoky, pink, or yellowish; vitreous (glassy) luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7; varies in color from clear and white to smoky, pink, or yellowish; vitreous (glassy) luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich magmas and hydrothermal veins, as well as precipitating in sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasive materials, countertops, and as gemstones or mineral specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. Its piezoelectric properties make it invaluable in electronic timekeeping devices.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and distinct 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