Non-fossiliferous Mineral Specimen (Quartz Crystal)
N/A (Mineral compound SiO2; cf. Clear Quartz / Rock Crystal) • None (Geological Mineral Specimen - Crystalline Silica)
Geological Period
Indeterminate (Mineral formation can span hundreds of millions of years, from Precambrian to Cenozoic)
Estimated Age
N/A (Crystalline structures of this type do not represent biological remains)
Preservation Type
Primary crystallization (Non-fossilization process)
Condition Assessment
Good (as a mineral); displays clear terminations though shows some basal fracturing where it was detached from the original cluster
Taxonomic Classification
Non-biological; Chemical Classification: Oxide Mineral; Group: Quartz
Morphological Description
Hexagonal crystal system exhibiting a prismatic habit. Shows a prominent pyramidal termination (rhombohedral faces) on one end. Surface texture is glassy (vitreous luster) with some internal fractures and inclusions visible.
Rock Matrix
Free-standing crystal; likely originally from a pegmatite vein or hydrothermal cavity in metamorphic or igneous host rock
Formation & Location
Potentially from regions known for quartz production such as Minas Gerais (Brazil), Arkansas (USA), or high-altitude alpine veins in Europe
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 2-3 cm in length; typical for individual small-scale quartz crystal points
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$2 - $10 USD
Auction Estimate
$5 - $15 USD (Typically sold in bulk lots rather than individual auction entries)
Rarity Assessment
Common (Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's crust)
Scientific Significance
Low paleontological significance; mineralogical significance for studying hydrothermal fluid compositions and crystal growth environments
Preparation Recommendations
No paleontological preparation needed. Clean with water to remove dust; store in a separate container to prevent scratching of softer materials
Notable Features
The specimen demonstrates textbook crystal habit for quartz, featuring a clear prismatic body and defined termination faces; however, no biological morphology is present.