mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white/translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/None (shows conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless to white/translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in all types of geological environments and can be billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry, and as a popular collector's mineral.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel) and lack of cleavage. Look for hexagonal crystal points or conchoidal (shell-like) fractures. Found globally in mountains, riverbeds, and mines.