mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color typically white or colorless (sometimes with gray or dark inclusions), vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color typically white or colorless (sometimes with gray or dark inclusions), vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal 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. It crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and magmas, often dating from Precambrian to recent geological times.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and decorative items.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. Its piezoelectric properties make it invaluable in electronic timing devices.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in almost every geological setting.
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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