mineral
Quartz Sand Grain / Micro Crystal
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to translucent white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None, fracture is conchoidal. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless to translucent white
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to translucent white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None, fracture is conchoidal. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through crystallization in igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary rock environments over millions of years, then broken down into tiny sand-sized grains by physical weathering and erosion.
Uses & applications
Small quartz fragments are used in sand production for glassmaking, construction mortar, ceramics, abrasives, and as geological study specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. Sand grains are primarily composed of quartz due to its high physical and chemical resistance to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its transparency, vitreous luster, and hardness (scratches glass easily). Found worldwide in beach sand, river beds, deserts, and rock debris.
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