mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal system. It typically appears colorless or white, but impurities can produce various colors.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal system. It typically appears colorless or white, but impurities can produce various colors.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of magma or precipitation from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a gemstone or ornamental carving material.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, making it essential in timekeeping devices.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness, lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture. It is found worldwide in virtually all geological settings.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous