Apatite Vs. Quartz

Apatite is a popular mineral group composed of a group of phosphates.^[1] Quartz is a very popular gemstone and its chemical composition is silicon dioxide.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Apatite and Quartz

For a quick recap of the differences apatite and quartz:

• While both apatite and quartz can be translucent or transparent, quartz can be opaque.
• While both apatite and quartz is hexagonal, in terms of crystallography, quartz can be trigonal.
• For chemical formulas, apatite can be Ca5(PO4)3(F, Cl or OH) while quartz is SiO2.
• While both apatite and quartz is vitreous, in terms of luster, quartz can be greasy or waxy.
• While both apatite and quartz can be commonly red, quartz is often yellow.
• Apatite's hardness is lower than quartz - apatite is 5 and quartz is 7 on the Moh's scale.
  • Apatite can be scratched by glass (5.5) or quartz (7) while quartz can not be.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Apatite and Quartz

The similarities of apatite and quartz include:

• Apatite and quartz both streak white.
• Apatite's rarity is similar to quartz.

Summary of Apatite

Apatite is a mineral that is commonly found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is made up of calcium phosphate, which is the same mineral that makes up our teeth and bones. Apatite can be identified by its green, blue, or yellow color, and its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. It can also be identified by its crystal structure, which is hexagonal.

Summary of Quartz

Quartz is a mineral that is composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a continuous framework of SiO4 silicon-oxygen tetrahedra. It is one of the most abundant minerals found in the Earth's crust. Quartz can be found in a variety of colors such as white, pink, purple, brown, gray, and black. It is also known for its unique crystal structure, which is hexagonal in shape, and its hardness, which is 7 on the Mohs scale.

Table Comparison of Apatite vs Quartz