mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent color (often white or colorless in raw form), vitreous luster, trigonal crystal structure, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, transparent to translucent color (often white or colorless in raw form), vitreous luster, trigonal crystal structure, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all geological environments—igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or precipitates from solution.
Uses & applications
Used widely in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it vital for modern electronics and timekeeping.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and glassy luster. Found globally in almost every type of rock formation.
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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