mineral
Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: colorless to cloudy white/tan in this specimen; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- colorless to cloudy white/tan in this specimen
- Luster
- Vitreous/glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: colorless to cloudy white/tan in this specimen; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling magma or hydrothermal veins. This specimen appears to be a massive variety or a weathered crystal point from a vein deposit.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics for piezoelectric properties, glassmaking, construction as sand, and as a gemstone or collector specimen.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all geological environments.
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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)
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Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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