metamorphic
Quartzite
Metamorphic rock predominantly composed of Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White, grey, or tan-pink; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Granular/Granoblastic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White, grey, or tan-pink
- Color
- White, grey, or tan-pink
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White, grey, or tan-pink; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Granular/Granoblastic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of quartz sandstone under high heat and pressure, typically during mountain-building events (orogeny). Most deposits relate to Precambrian or Paleozoic metamorphic belts.
Uses & applications
Used in construction as crushed stone or decorative building stone, in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, and as a source of high-purity silica for the electronics industry.
Geological facts
Quartzite is so hard and chemically resistant that it often forms the resistive ridges of major mountain ranges. It is significantly harder than a steel knife and will scratch glass easily.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its sugary texture and hardness; unlike marble, it will not fizz in contact with acid. Commonly found in metamorphic mountain belts worldwide.
More like this
