mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White/Colorless (Milky Quartz), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White/Colorless (Milky Quartz), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling magma or hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in various environments ranging from igneous to metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (gemstones), and as a structural component in construction (sand and gravel).
Geological facts
Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress. This property led to its use in the first reliable clocks and watches.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife (hardness 7) and its lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous