mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and no distinct cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and no distinct cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all geological environments—igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks—often as a primary component of pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, electronics, optical instruments, and manufactured glass.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electric charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
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Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral