mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless/Transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly by crystallization from molten magma as it cools, or through precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks of all ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as gemstones in jewelry. It is also used in hydraulic fracturing sand and construction concrete.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is chemically very stable and resistant to weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most beach sands.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (it scratches glass), its glassy luster, and its characteristic conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Found globally, especially in granite and sandstone formations.