- Certain minerals, like quartz, exhibit piezoelectricity, which is the ability to generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress. - Piezoelectricity occurs because these minerals have asymmetrical crystal structures that become imbalanced when compressed, producing separated positive and negative charges. - Common applications of piezoelectricity include its use in lighters, where quartz crystals produce sparks to ignite gas, and in devices like watches, microphones, and record players.