Both quartz and calcite are common minerals found on earth. Though they have some similarities, they have some key differences that set them apart. This blog post will explore those differences and show how they are used in different ways. So, what is the difference between quartz and calcite? Let’s find out!
What is Quartz?
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, making up 12% of the crust by volume. Quartz is made of silicon and oxygen, and its chemical structure is very simple. Quartz is also very stable, meaning it does not break down easily. Quartz has a wide range of uses, from making sand for construction to powering watches and computers. Quartz is also used in jewelry, and its clear, colorless variety is known as “rock crystal.” Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors, including yellow, pink, purple, and brown. Some varieties of quartz are very rare, and their colors can be quite stunning. Quartz is a beautiful and versatile mineral that has many uses.
What is Calcite?
Calcite is a mineral that occurs in a variety of rocks, including limestone, marble, and chalk. It is also the main component of seashells, pearls, and eggshells. Calcite has a wide range of applications, from construction to pharmaceuticals. It is used as an abrasive in toothpaste and as a building material in concrete and mortar. Calcite is also a key ingredient in agricultural lime, which is used to neutralize soil acidity.
Additionally, Calcite is used in optical instruments, such as microscopes and telescopes. It is also used in making paper, plastics, paint, and steel. Calcite has a Mohs hardness of 3 and a specific gravity of 2.71. It has a vitreous luster and is colorless or white in color. Calcite is transparent to translucent and has double refraction. It cleaves easily in three directions. Calcite can be found all over the world and is the most common mineral on Earth.
Difference between Quartz and Calcite
Quartz and calcite are two of the most common minerals on Earth. They both have a very similar chemical composition, but they differ in their crystal structures. Quartz has a hexagonal crystalline structure, while calcite has a trigonal crystalline structure. Quartz is also much harder than calcite, making it difficult to scratch or break.
In terms of their physical properties, quartz is typically white or clear, while calcite can be found in a variety of colors. Lastly, Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning that it can generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress. Calcite, on the other hand, is not piezoelectric.
Conclusion
Quartz and calcite are two common minerals found on Earth. They have different properties, which is why they are used in different applications. If you need a mineral that is resistant to scratching and has a low reactivity to other materials, quartz would be the best option for you. If you need a mineral with high thermal shock resistance and moderate hardness, calcite would be the better choice. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the difference between these two minerals and how they can benefit your project.
