mineral

Quartz Mineral

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: colorless to white (milky); Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: colorless to white (milky)
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: colorless to white (milky); Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is found in all types of geological environments (igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary) across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, hydraulic fracturing, and as a piezoelectric material in electronics/clocks. Also used for lapidary work and jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most beach sands.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and vitreous luster. It is ubiquitous and can be found almost anywhere rocks are exposed.