mineral

Quartz (Crystal)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white (clear), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white (clear), Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of magma or by precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in virtually all geological ages and environments.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), optics, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a popular gemstone for jewelry and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied. It is also the primary component of most sand found in world deserts and beaches.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its characteristic hexagonal prism shape with striations. It is found globally, particularly in granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.