mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, transparent to opaque, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, transparent to opaque, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms 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
Widely used in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, abrasives, gemstone carving, and as decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential in modern electronics and watches.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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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
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic