mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal system with white, clear, or pinkish hues.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal system with white, clear, or pinkish hues.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal solutions.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, abrasive materials, countertops, and gemstone carving.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits strong piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its lack of cleavage, high hardness capable of scratching glass, and hexagonal crystal habit.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous