mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, colorless to white (or stained yellowish-brown by iron oxides), hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to greasy luster, colorless to white (or stained yellowish-brown by iron oxides), hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary component of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, manufacturing of glass and ceramics, ornamental items, and gemstone collections.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost all rock types.
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Other mineral specimens
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
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral