mineral

Quartz (specifically Milky or Clear Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to translucent milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Clear to translucent milky white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to translucent milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in all geological ages and environments, commonly in igneous rocks like granite or metamorphic rocks like quartzite.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in glassmaking, abrasives, and electronics (due to piezoelectric properties). In jewelry, it is used for beads and carvings; clear specimens are popular for mineral collecting and metaphysical uses.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most river and beach sands.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage (it breaks into irregular, curved flakes like glass), and its glassy luster. It is found globally in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as veins in larger rock outcroppings.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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Nephrite Jade

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

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Metamorphic Rock

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mineral