Where is Quartz in Metamorphic Rock found?
Quartz (SiO2) in Metamorphic Rock (likely schist or gneiss)
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Open the appQuartz in Metamorphic Rock occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Quartz in Metamorphic Rock
Appalachian Mountains, USA
Extensive exposures of schist and gneiss containing abundant quartz, formed during the Taconic, Acadian, and Alleghenian orogenies.
Scandinavian Caledonides, Norway/Sweden
Large areas of high-grade metamorphic rocks, including quartz-rich schists and gneisses, resulting from the Caledonian orogeny.
Himalayan Orogen, Asia
Regions with intense metamorphism and deformation, yielding various quartz-bearing metamorphic rocks.
Canadian Shield, Canada
Vast exposures of ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks, including numerous quartz-rich gneisses and schists.
Collecting tips
- Look for Foliation/Banding. In schist, quartz will be intergrown with mica, contributing to the platy foliation. In gneiss, look for distinct light-colored bands (quartz and feldspar) alternating with darker bands (mafic minerals).
- Hardness Test. Quartz is hard (Mohs 7). It will scratch glass and steel. This helps distinguish it from softer minerals like calcite or gypsum.
- Luster and Fracture. Observe the vitreous (glassy) luster and conchoidal fracture of individual quartz grains within the rock matrix.
- Acid Test (for differentiation). Quartz does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid, unlike calcite, which effervesces. This is useful if there's a possibility of carbonate minerals being mistaken for quartz.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Colorless, white, or gray
- Luster:
- Vitreous to greasy
- Streak:
- White
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