mineral

Raw quartz crystal fragment

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely iron-stained or included quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent, pale pinkish-to-clear fragment with vitreous luster and irregular/conchoidal fracture; quartz is Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. Brown areas may be iron-oxide inclusions or surface staining.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and igneous veins; the fragment likely broke from a larger crystal. Its exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and oscillators; attractive clear or inclusion-rich pieces are sold as inexpensive mineral specimens or lapidary material.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and forms distinctive six-sided prismatic crystals when space permits. Iron staining can produce yellow, orange, brown, or pink coloration.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, glassy luster, lack of cleavage, and a white streak; avoid confusing it with calcite, which is softer and cleaves readily. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and Alpine veins.