Gypsum is the softest mineral among diamond, quartz, silver, and gypsum. It has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, while diamond is the hardest with a rating of 10.
A diamond has a hardness of 10 on a scale of 10 known as Mohs Hardness Scale. A diamond can scratch any other mineral. It isn't the only mineral that can scratch glass thou, quartz, corundum,garnet, among others
Quartz is the most abundant mineral among feldspar, mica, and calcite. It is a common mineral found in a wide variety of rock types and environments worldwide.
Quartz belongs to the mineral group known as silicates, specifically within the subgroup tectosilicates. It is composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a framework structure. Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and is found in various types of rocks, including granite and sandstone.
The choice of the "best" gemstone from the minerals fluorite, corundum, talc, and galena depends on various factors, including personal preferences, desired characteristics, and the purpose of the gemstone. Each mineral has its own unique properties and allure. Fluorite is known for its wide range of colors and vibrant fluorescence. It is prized for its transparency and can exhibit beautiful patterns and internal structures. It is a popular gemstone for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Corundum is the mineral that includes both rubies and sapphires. Ruby, a red variety of corundum, is highly valued for its rich color and rarity. Sapphires, which come in various colors other than red, are also highly regarded for their brilliance and durability. Talc, on the other hand, is a soft mineral and not typically used as a gemstone due to its low hardness. It is commonly used in various industrial applications and is also known as the mineral that gives soapstone its characteristic feel. Galena is primarily a lead ore mineral and is not typically used as a gemstone due to its high density and lack of transparency. It is more commonly sought after for its economic value as a source of lead. Considering the factors of beauty, durability, and market value, fluorite and corundum (particularly rubies and sapphires) are generally regarded as the more desirable gemstones among the minerals you mentioned.
Quartz is primarily a mineral found in both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. It can form in sedimentary rocks through the accumulation and cementation of quartz grains. In metamorphic rocks, existing quartz can recrystallize under heat and pressure.
Eight states have adopted quartz as their state mineral, making it the most popular choice among state minerals. These states include Arkansas, California, Georgia, North Carolina, and more.
The sparkle is the reflection of light off the mineral crystal faces or cleavage surfaces.
Feldspar and quartz, with a hardness of 6 and 7 on the Mohs Scale respectively, are the minerals that give granite its abrasion resistance. Its hardness is due to the interlocking crystal structure as it cools from melt, making it among the hardest of rock types.
It depends on the application of the rock or mineral. For instance, granite is very popular in the manufacture of counter tops and gravestones. But for electrical production, coal is by far the most popular. Malachite is popular among copper refiners, and halite is very popular among chefs and diners. Quartz is the mineral that appears to be most popular among mineral collectors, but gold and diamond are favorites of jewelry makers and consumers. Limestone is preferred among road makers and concrete manufacturers.
Quartz is a common mineral that can be found all over the world. It is often found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, as well as in sand deposits and veins within rocks. Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and Russia are among the countries with significant quartz deposits.
Emerald is a type of gemstone, while quartz, silver, and gold are not specific gemstones. So, among the options given, Emerald is the gemstone.