mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/translucent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal System: Trigonal (often hexagonal prisms), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white/translucent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal System: Trigonal (often hexagonal prisms), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, precision electronics (piezoelectric properties), construction as sand/gravel, and jewelry as gemstones.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal (glass-like) fracture pattern. Found globally in almost any mountain range or riverbed.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral