mineral

Botryoidal Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light gray; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: white to light gray
Luster: vitreous to waxy

Identified May 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light gray; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Cleavage: none; Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed via the precipitation of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in cavities or fractures, often as a secondary mineral in volcanic or sedimentary host rocks.

Uses & applications

Primary use in collecting, lapidary work for cabochons, and as a source of silica in various industrial processes.

Geological facts

The term 'botryoidal' comes from the Greek word 'botrys', meaning a bunch of grapes, referring to the rounded shape of the crystal clusters.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the characteristic grape-like clusters and high hardness; it cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Commonly found in geode-rich areas or volcanic regions.