Quartz
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and comes in many varieties. Clear quartz (rock crystal) is transparent and colorless, making it highly valued. Quartz is used in electronics, jewelry, and as a gemstone. It forms beautiful hexagonal crystals and is extremely hard.
Physical Properties of Quartz
| Texture | Crystalline |
| Colors | Colorless, white, clear (rock crystal) |
| Magnetism | Non-magnetic |
| Grain Size | Crystalline |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Density | 2.65 g/cm³ |
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Chemical Properties of Quartz
Main Elements:
Si, O
Chemical Composition:
SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) - pure quartz
Health Risk of Quartz
Quartz dust (crystalline silica) can cause serious respiratory issues including silicosis. Always wear protective masks when cutting or grinding quartz.
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Market Price:
Polished: $2-$100+ per piece (varies by quality)
Raw/Tumbled: $1-$50+ per piece
Characteristics of Quartz
Density:
2.65 g/cm³
Compressive Strength:
Variable
Melting Point:
1713°C
Formation:
Forms in a variety of environments: veins, geodes, pegmatites, and as a component of many rocks. Clear quartz forms when silica-rich solutions deposit crystals.
Composition:
Composed of pure silicon dioxide (SiO₂), making it one of the hardest common minerals.
Types:
- Rock Crystal (clear)
- Milky Quartz
- Smoky Quartz
- Rose Quartz
- Amethyst
- Citrine
Etymology:
Derived from the German word "Quarz", possibly from Slavic origins meaning "hard".
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Cultural Significance of Quartz
Uses:
- Electronics (oscillators)
- Jewelry
- Gemstones
- Watches
- Decorative items
- Spiritual practices
Distribution:
Found worldwide - one of the most abundant minerals on Earth
Historical Use:
Used for thousands of years in jewelry and tools. Ancient peoples used quartz for arrowheads and cutting tools.
Symbolism:
Represents clarity, energy, and purity. Used in spiritual practices worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is quartz used for?
Quartz is used in electronics (oscillators in watches and computers), jewelry, gemstones, decorative items, and spiritual practices. It's one of the most useful minerals!
Why is quartz so common?
Quartz is extremely stable and resistant to weathering, so it accumulates in many rock types and environments. It's one of the last minerals to form and one of the hardest to break down.
What is the difference between quartz and quartzite?
Quartz is the mineral (SiO₂), while quartzite is a rock made of quartz crystals that have been fused together under heat and pressure.
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