mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically colorless or white but can be various colors, vitreous (glassy) 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, typically colorless or white but can be various colors, vitreous (glassy) 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 including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found globally.
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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