mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, colorless to white (can be various colors depending on impurities), conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, colorless to white (can be various colors depending on impurities), conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, gemstones, and abrasive materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
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sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral