mineral

Quartz (Raw / Unpolished)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or stained with earthy impurities, vitreous to dull luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white, clear, or stained with earthy impurities, vitreous to dull luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, frequently crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or as a primary component of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks over millions of years

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and mineral specimen collecting

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found worldwide in almost every geological setting