Quartz
Quartz, a mineral composed of silica dioxide, stands as a resilient crystalline entity renowned for its versatility. As one of the most celebrated and second most abundant minerals on Earth, its presence resonates across countless applications. Found as a fundamental constituent in rocks of varying origins, be it igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary, quartz thrives in diverse temperature ranges. While its purest form exudes a pristine clarity or radiates a brilliant white, the infusion of distinct impurities within its atomic lattice ignites a kaleidoscope of hues, ranging from regal purples to gentle pinks, earthy browns, mysterious blacks, serene grays, lush greens, vibrant oranges, sunny yellows, captivating blues, or fiery reds.
- Formula: SiO2
- Form Crystals
SEND US A MESSAGE
CONTACT INFORMATION
Welcome to Gold Dust Minerals!
Please complete the form and we’ll contact you shortly to discuss your mineral inquiry.
Description:
Quartz is a common and abundant mineral found in the Earth’s crust. It is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and is known for its crystalline structure, a wide range of colours, and various forms.
Colour:
Quartz comes in a variety of colours, including clear (colourless), white, pink, purple, blue, green, brown, and more. The colour of quartz is often due to impurities or mineral inclusions.
Types of Quartz:
- Clear Quartz: Also known as rock crystal, clear quartz is colourless and prized for its clarity. It is used in jewellery and metaphysical practices.
- Amethyst: A purple variety of quartz, amethyst is a popular gemstone known for its deep violet colour.
- Rose Quartz: This pink variety of quartz is associated with love and is often used in jewellery and healing.
- Citrine: A yellow to golden-brown variety of quartz, citrine is valued as a gemstone and is often used in jewellery.
- Smoky Quartz: Brown to greyish-brown in colour, smoky quartz is known for its smoky appearance and is used in jewellery and decorative items.
- Quartzite: A metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz grains. It is used as a building material.
Uses:
- Jewellery: Quartz is widely used in jewellery, with clear quartz, amethyst, rose quartz, and citrine being some of the most popular gemstone varieties.
- Electronics: Quartz crystals are used in electronic devices such as watches, clocks, and oscillators due to their precise frequency-keeping properties.
- Construction: Quartz is used as a building material in the form of quartzite, which is known for its durability and resistance to weathering.
- Metaphysical and Healing: Quartz is believed to have metaphysical properties and is used for healing, meditation, and energy work.
Properties:
- Chemical Formula: SiO2 (silicon dioxide)
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale (harder than steel)
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy)
- Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
Quartz is a versatile mineral with a wide range of applications, from its use in high-precision electronics to its presence in the beautiful gemstone jewellery and decorative items. Its durability and diverse forms make it highly valuable in various industries.