mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white or milky color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white or milky color, vitreous luster, trigonal 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 over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics, glassmaking, oscillators, abrasive materials, gemstone carving, and ornamental jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, after feldspar. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential for keeping time in watches and clocks.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in riverbeds, pegmatites, and quartz veins.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
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