mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: White to colorless (milky), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: White to colorless (milky), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in almost all types of geological environments; commonly crystallizes from magma Cooling or precipitates from hydrothermal veins. Often found in continental crust across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primary source of silica for glassmaking, abrasive in sandblasting, used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, and widely used in jewelry and lapidary art.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal, while milky quartz gets its color from tiny fluid inclusions trapped during formation.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and beach sands.