mineral
Quartz Crystal Fragment
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Clear to white
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling magma or hydrothermally in veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments worldwide.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, and as a popular gemstone for jewelry and specimen collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when pressurized. It has been used by humans for tools and adornment for thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass but not Topaz. Common in granite outcroppings and riverbeds.
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sedimentary
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Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
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Metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
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metamorphic
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