mineral

Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent pinkish; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent pinkish
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent pinkish; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in almost all mineral environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction as an abrasive, and frequently in jewelry or as decorative 'tumbled' stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Purer white/clear varieties like this are often referred to as 'Milk Quartz' when opaque due to microscopic fluid inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and glassy luster. It is ubiquitous but found in high concentrations in quartz veins and riverbeds.