Quartz (noun)

1. A hard mineral consisting of silicon dioxide, found in many types of rock and used in many types of industry, such as glass and ceramics manufacturing and as a semiconductor in electronic devices.
2. A timepiece that uses a quartz crystal oscillator to keep time.

Origin:

The word "quartz" comes from the german word "quarz" which in turn is derived from the slavic word "kwardy" meaning hard. quartz is a hard mineral composed of silicon dioxide.

Examples:

1. Quartz is one of the most common minerals on Earth, found in granite, sandstone, and many other types of rock.
2. Quartz is used in the manufacturing of glass, ceramics and semiconductors.
3. Quartz watches are known for their accuracy and durability.
4. Quartz is also used in the production of abrasives and as a gemstone.
5. He was fascinated by the large quartz crystals that he found in the cave.