mineral

Quartz (Small Fragment)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Clear to white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, found in all types of geological environments and ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry. Small industrial-grade fragments are used in sandblasting.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress, which is why it is used in watches and clocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and its lack of cleavage. In the field, look for hexagonal crystal shapes or glassy, irregular shards in riverbeds or granite outcrops.