mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a gemstone or ornamental mineral in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust, and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic 7 Mohs hardness (can scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost every rock type.
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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