Quartz silica is a naturally occurring mineral found on every continent and in many types of rocks. Its unique molecular structure allows for large crystal growth. It is used in computing and watchmaking, and there are many different varieties, including gemstones.
Quartz silica, also known as crystalline silica or crystalline silicone dioxide, is a naturally occurring mineral. It is one of the most abundant minerals on earth and there are hundreds of different varieties, some of which are gemstones. The molecular structure of quartz silica is unusual and allows stones composed of the material to grow to large sizes over time.
One of the most common minerals on earth, silica quartz is found on every continent and in every type of environment. The mineral grows as layers of silicon dioxide are deposited on a crystal seed or small cluster of silicon dioxide molecules. These crystals are found in many different types of rocks, including igneous rocks, such as granite, and sedimentary rocks, such as shale. Quartz is extremely hard, meaning it often outlives the stone it was originally found in. These stones often deteriorate over time, releasing crystals.
Quartz silica has a very unique structure found in only one other type of mineral on earth. The silicone dioxide molecules are arranged in groups of four that twist like a corkscrew. The structure of the molecules in this mineral makes it relatively difficult to cut, although many varieties can be accurately worked into common gem cuts. Over time, these crystals can reach lengths of several meters, although they are rare.
There are many different forms of quartz silica found in nature. Citrine, amethyst, rose quartz and smoky quartz are some of the common varieties of the mineral. While the color and appearance of all of these stones vary considerably, they are all made up of silicon dioxide and are all crystalline forms of this compound. Other stones, such as onyx, agate, and bloodstone are also forms of silicon dioxide, although they consist of both quartz and monganite, which have different crystalline structures.
Rock collectors value quartz silica for the many varieties they can find. Examining stone elements such as color, clarity, shape and size can yield hundreds of different types of quartz, no two are exactly alike. In computing, extremely pure samples of quartz silica are used to make some electrical components, including timing devices. Quartz is also commonly used in watches because its resonant frequency remains stable over long periods of time and under many different environmental conditions.
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