kvartskristalli

Kvartskristalli, also known as quartz crystals, are a common form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). They are characterized by their crystalline structure, typically forming hexagonal prisms terminated by pyramids. Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, found in a wide variety of geological environments. Its formation can occur through igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes. Pure quartz is colorless and transparent, but impurities can give it a wide range of colors, leading to varieties like amethyst (purple), citrine (yellow), rose quartz (pink), and smoky quartz (brownish-grey).

The physical properties of quartz, such as its hardness (7 on the Mohs scale), chemical inertness, and piezoelectric properties, make it useful in numerous applications. Piezoelectricity is the ability of certain materials to generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress, and vice versa. This property is fundamental to the use of quartz in electronic devices like watches, radios, and computers, where it functions as an oscillator to regulate frequency. In jewelry and ornamental uses, quartz is valued for its clarity, color, and durability. Geologically, quartz plays a significant role in the formation and weathering of rocks.