mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and magmatic pegmatites, as well as being a primary constituent of many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstone carvings, and as a mineral specimen for collectors.
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 electrical charge when compressed.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic 7 Mohs hardness (can scratch glass) and conchoidal fracture. Found globally, with notable deposits in Brazil, the United States, Madagascar, and the Alps.
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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
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral