mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: White, clear, or milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: White, clear, or milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide range of environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or magmas.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, abrasives, and gemstone carving.
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 electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its characteristic conchoidal fracture, high hardness (scratches glass), and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide.
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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