Tectosilicates are a group of minerals characterized by their three-dimensional framework structure. This means that the silicon-oxygen tetrahedra are linked together in a way that forms a sturdy network. Common examples of tectosilicates include quartz and feldspar, which are abundant in the Earth's crust and play a crucial role in the formation of rocks. These minerals are significant in geology and materials science due to their stability and durability. Tectosilicates can be found in various types of rocks, such as granite and basalt, and are essential for understanding the Earth's composition and the processes that shape our planet.