mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear to smoky gray or milky white, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear to smoky gray or milky white, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and magma, as well as precipitating in sedimentary environments
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and decorative items
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 applied mechanical stress
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; found worldwide in almost all rock types
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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