mineral
White Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; milky white color with occasional iron staining; vitreous to greasy luster; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; milky white color with occasional iron staining; vitreous to greasy luster; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly precipitating from hydrothermal veins, as well as crystallizing from silica-rich magmas and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly all types of rock formations.
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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
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Septarian Pebble
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Schist
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Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral