Rock Identifier

mineral

Quartz

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White/clear with orange/iron staining. Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished or wet). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White/clear with orange/iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished or wet)

Identified August 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: White/clear with orange/iron staining. Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished or wet). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide range of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often precipitates from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in fractures or cavities.

Uses & applications

Widely used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, petroleum industry, electronics (oscillators), and as a gemstone or ornamental stone.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The orange/brown staining is typically iron oxide (limonite or hematite).

Field identification & locations

Identified by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Very common in many environments, often found as river stones or beach pebbles.

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Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining

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Septarian Pebble (Septarian nodule / Concretion) — sedimentary

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Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

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