mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, milky white to translucent color with iron staining, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale, milky white to translucent color with iron staining, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous rocks through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich fluid under various pressure and temperature conditions.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, jewelry, and gemstone collecting. Highly prized in raw specimen collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential for timekeeping in quartz watches and radios.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its ability to scratch glass easily, lack of cleavage, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide, especially in granite pegmatites and quartz veins.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock