mineral / metamorphic
Quartz / Quartzite Fragment
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, translucent to milky; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White, translucent to milky
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More mineral / metamorphic →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, translucent to milky; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone (quartzite). This specimen appears to be a river-worn or weathered fragment from an alluvial deposit.
Uses & applications
Used widely in glassmaking, electronics, abrasive manufacturing, and as construction aggregate. High-quality specimens are used in jewelry and lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is chemically very stable and resistant to weathering, which is why it is often found as smooth pebbles in riverbeds and on beaches.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage planes. It is commonly found in gravel pits, riverbeds, and mountainous regions worldwide. For collectors, look for clarity or unique crystalline habits.
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