mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal system with white to translucent coloring.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal system with white to translucent coloring.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily from cooling magma in igneous rocks and through precipitation from hydrothermal solutions.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, oscillators, and gemstone carving.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness, lack of cleavage, and characteristic hexagonal crystal habit when well-formed.
