Quartz: meaning, definitions and examples
⛏️
quartz
[kwɔːts ]
Definitions
mineral
A hard, crystalline mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms, often found in the form of quartz crystals. It is a common constituent of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Synonyms
crystal, rock crystal, silica.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quartz |
Often used in scientific, industrial, or technical contexts to describe a common mineral composed of silicon dioxide.
|
| crystal |
Generally used to refer to a clear, transparent mineral that has a regular shape and is often used in jewelry or decorative objects.
|
| silica |
Used primarily in scientific and industrial contexts, referring to silicon dioxide in its natural state or as a material for making glass and other products.
|
| rock crystal |
Refers specifically to clear, colorless quartz often used in artistic or decorative contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- Quartz is used in the making of glass and ceramics.
- The watch had a quartz crystal that helped keep time accurately.
technology
A type of watch or clock that uses a quartz crystal to generate a regular electrical signal to keep time.
Synonyms
quartz clock, quartz watch.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quartz |
General term used in geology, gemology, and industry to describe a hard, crystalline mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms.
|
| quartz clock |
Refers specifically to a type of clock that uses an electronic oscillator regulated by a quartz crystal to keep time accurately.
|
| quartz watch |
A specific type of watch that uses a quartz crystal to maintain keeping time, generally more affordable and accurate compared to mechanical watches.
|
Examples of usage
- My watch is a quartz model, so it's very precise.
- The quartz clock on the wall never runs slow or fast.
geology
A mass of crystalline grains of quartz, often found in veins in rocks.
Synonyms
quartz deposit, quartz vein.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quartz |
General discussion about minerals or gemstones.
|
Examples of usage
- The miners discovered a large quartz deposit in the mountain.
- The quartz in the rock formation shimmered in the sunlight.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The name 'quartz' comes from the German word 'Quarz,' which was first used in the 16th century.
- People have used quartz for thousands of years, dating back to prehistoric times when it was shaped into tools.
- In ancient Egypt, quartz was often used in jewelry and was believed to have magical properties.
Crystal Properties
- It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface, making up about 12% of the Earth's crust.
- Quartz crystals can grow in different shapes, including the well-known hexagonal form.
- The vibrations of quartz can be harnessed for technology; it's used in watches and electronics to keep accurate time.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, quartz is considered a healing stone and is believed to promote clarity and balance.
- Native American tribes often incorporated quartz into their ceremonies as it held spiritual significance.
- In Feng Shui, quartz is regarded as a powerful energy amplifier that can enhance the flow of positive energy in a space.
Art and Decoration
- Artists have used quartz in sculptures and decor, appreciating its beauty and variety of colors.
- Gemstone collectors prize quartz varieties like amethyst, citrine, and rose quartz for their distinct colors and beauty.
- Decorative objects made of quartz are popular in home decor for their aesthetic appeal and unique patterns.
Science and Technology
- Quartz's ability to generate an electric charge when stressed is known as the piezoelectric effect, used in many gadgets.
- Rock crystal quartz is used in making scientific equipment like oscillators and oscillography.
- Researchers study quartz to understand geological processes, as its presence can indicate the history of the Earth’s crust formation.
Translations
Translations of the word "quartz" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quartzo
🇮🇳 क्वार्ट्ज़
🇩🇪 Quarz
🇮🇩 kuarsa
🇺🇦 кварц
🇵🇱 kwarc
🇯🇵 石英 (せきえい)
🇫🇷 quartz
🇪🇸 cuarzo
🇹🇷 kuvars
🇰🇷 석영 (seogyeong)
🇸🇦 كوارتز
🇨🇿 křemen
🇸🇰 kremeň
🇨🇳 石英 (shíyīng)
🇸🇮 kremen
🇮🇸 kvars
🇰🇿 кварц
🇬🇪 კვარცი
🇦🇿 kvars
🇲🇽 cuarzo