mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to tan/peach (likely stained by iron); Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to tan/peach (likely stained by iron)
Luster: Vitreous/waxy

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to tan/peach (likely stained by iron); Luster: Vitreous/waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma or by precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as a common collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which had its origin in the Slavic word for 'hard'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and common occurrence in veins. Found globally in almost all geological environments.