mineral
Blue Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) with blue inclusions (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale blue to medium blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Pale blue to medium blue
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale blue to medium blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments. The blue color is often caused by inclusions of other minerals like magnesio-riebeckite, crocidolite, or tourmaline, or by the Rayleigh scattering of light.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary purposes including jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a collector's stone or metaphysical crystal.
Geological facts
Unlike Blue Chalcedony which is microcrystalline, Blue Quartz typically contains fibrous mineral inclusions that create its characteristic opaque to translucent blue appearance.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and the presence of internal inclusions. Commonly found in Brazil, India, and the United States (Virginia).
