mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most notably in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a gemstone or specimen in jewelry and crystal collecting.
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
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary