mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65, ranging from transparent to opaque with various colors.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65, ranging from transparent to opaque with various colors.
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all geological environments - igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It crystallizes from silica-rich magmas, hydrothermal veins, and precipitates out of aqueous solutions.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasive materials, gemstone carving, and decorative specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential for keeping time in watches and controlling frequencies in radios.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its conchoidal fracture, lack of cleavage, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife (hardness 7). Found worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral