mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7; vitreous luster; translucent to transparent; colorless or white; conchoidal fracture; hexagonal crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7; vitreous luster; translucent to transparent; colorless or white; conchoidal fracture; hexagonal crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, often through crystallization from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and as ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, making it useful in watches and electronic devices.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly all geological environments.
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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)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral