mineral

Quartz (Druzy or Crystalline variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma. It often precipitates in veins or cavities within host rocks like granite or sandstone. Deposits can range from millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass making, abrasive manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction material, and as gemstones or collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal, while impurities create varieties like amethyst (purple) and citrine (yellow).

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage, and its characteristic crystal faces. Often found in riverbeds, mountains, or near volcanic activity. Collectors look for well-defined points or druzy clusters.

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