mineral

Quartz (Crystal Fragment)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to translucent white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified May 28, 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 translucent white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in all types of geological environments; commonly precipitates from hydrothermal veins or crystallizes from cooling magma in igneous rocks. While the mineral group is ancient, individual crystals can range from millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Widely used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezo-electric, meaning it can generate an electric charge under mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved, shell-like shapes). Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and granite outcroppings.