What is It?

Type of Rock: Minerals (Igneous Rock)

Description: Quartz has an astounding array of uses, ranging from
items as abrasive as sandpaper to those as delicate as glass. It is readily
available is the second most abundant mineral on earth. One of the
strongest minerals in nature, only sapphire, diamond, and topaz
surpass it. From jewelry to countertops, quartz can do it all!
Importance: Quartz is important for the critical Zone because of its
composition and distribution. Quartz is the scond most common
mineral in the Earth’s crust, right after feldspars. Because quartz is resistant
to weathering, it often is one of the last minerals to dissolve.

Type of Rock: Minerals (Igneous Rock)

Description: The primary interest in Goethite is as an ore of iron; it
is otherwise not very attractive as a mineral specimen.
Importance: Goethite is a diaspora mineral which has been used for
hundreds of years as a source for brown and yellow ochre paint. It
is also important as an iron ore, from which iron can be extracted. Some
particularly beautiful and rare types are desired by collectors, or cut
into cabochons for use in jewelry.

Type of Rock: Metamorphic

Description: Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed under
immense heat and pressure in the earth. It can be polished to a
glassy shine, and its beautiful colors and patterns make it popular.
Importance: Quartzite is a strong and durable rock, making it
popular choice in construction materials, though it is often tough to be used
frequently without damaging construction tools in the process.
Quartzite can also be mined to manufacture glass due to its high
silica content.

Type of Rock: Igneous

Description: Granite, coarse- or medium- grained intrusive igneous
rock that is rich in quartz and feldspar; it is the most common plutonic
rock of Earth’s crust, forming by cooling magma (silicate melt) depth.
Importance: Granite is used in bulidings, bridges, paving,
monuments, and many other exterior projects. Indoors, polished
granite slabs and tiles are used in countertops, tile floors, and many other
design elements.

Type of Rock: Sedimentary

Description: Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-
size grains of rock, minerals or organic material.
Importance: Sandstone has a multiple uses that date back to the
ancient worlds. The stone is easy to shape, making it popular construction
even to this day. It is also used by artisans, most often for sculptures. It can
be used to make pottery, cookware, grinding wheels, and great many other things.s