mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white or brownish color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, clear to white or brownish color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often precipitated from hydrothermal solutions or silica-rich fluids over millions of years

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, watches, glassmaking, abrasives, and as decorative gemstones or collector specimens

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; found globally in almost every rock type and region