mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, transparent to translucent color, trigonal crystal system, and no cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, transparent to translucent color, trigonal crystal system, and no cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the crystallization of silica-rich solutions and magmas over diverse geological timescales.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and as an oscillator in watches.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found globally in nearly all geological settings.
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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
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