mineral

Quartz Boulder

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to milky or light pinkish color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to milky or light pinkish color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes, crystallization from silica-rich magmas, or as a primary constituent of various igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks over millions of years

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics, optics, countertops, abrasives, and as ornamental landscape stones or lapidary material

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; commonly found in veins cutting through older rock formations worldwide