Quartz with Apatite-(CaF)
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameQuartz with Apatite-(CaF)
Chemical FormulaSiO2 (Quartz); Ca5(PO4)3F (Apatite-(CaF))
Mohs Hardness7
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavageQuartz: None; Apatite: Distinct on {0001}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorscolorless, milky white, pale smoky, white, greenish
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityPanasqueira Mines, Panasqueira, Covilhã, Castelo Branco District, Portugal
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, industrial, collector
Associated MineralsApatite-(CaF)
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features a large, translucent, pale smoky to milky white quartz crystal with a sharp termination. Several smaller, white, prismatic apatite crystals are attached to one side, along with some greenish matrix at the base.
Geological Context
Quartz is a ubiquitous mineral found in various geological settings. This specimen likely formed in a hydrothermal vein system, typical of the Panasqueira tungsten-tin deposits, where quartz and apatite are common associates.
