mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear/white to various shades of yellow, brown, or pink, vitreous (glassy) luster, hexagonal crystal system, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear/white to various shades of yellow, brown, or pink, vitreous (glassy) luster, hexagonal crystal system, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a common constituent of pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sandstones.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (quartz crystal oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and construction materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
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