mineral
Quartz Crystal Cluster
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color is transparent to white, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color is transparent to white, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma in pegmatites and veins, ranging widely in geological age from Precambrian to recent times.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, watchmaking, optical equipment, gemstones, and decorative mineral collections.
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 electric charge in response to mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hexagonal crystal habit, high hardness (scratches glass), and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Brazil, the USA, and Madagascar.
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