mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Transparent to translucent, white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Transparent to translucent, white
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Transparent to translucent, white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, after feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost all mineral environments.
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