mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 7, color ranges from colorless to white, gray, pink, purple, etc., vitreous (glassy) luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, color ranges from colorless to white, gray, pink, purple, etc., vitreous (glassy) luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all geological environments—igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks—often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators, watches), glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and construction materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, generating an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every type of geological terrain.
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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