mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or translucent, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or translucent, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 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 veins and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, oscillators, gemstones, and abrasive materials.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its characteristic hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral