mineral
Quartz (Milky/Crystalline fragment)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Most commonly crystallizes from magma or precipitates from hot hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as a popular gemstone or collector mineral in its higher-quality forms.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is chemically and physically very resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (it scratches glass) and its lack of cleavage. Found globally in mountains, riverbeds, and beaches.
