mineral

Quartz Crystal Fragment

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to colorless/transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to colorless/transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz Crystal Fragment in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to colorless/transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling magma or hydrothermal veins. Quartz is the most abundant mineral in Earth's crust and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass manufacturing, electronics (oscillator crystals), abrasives, jewelry, and as a component in building materials like concrete and mortar.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress, which is why it is used in watches and clocks. It is the primary constituent of most sand.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Fragments are commonly found in gravel, stream beds, and near granite outcrops. Known as 'the universal crystal' among collectors.