mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal system. Often exhibits orange to yellow coloration due to iron oxide staining.
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, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal system. Often exhibits orange to yellow coloration due to iron oxide staining.
Formation & geological history
Forms in wide varieties of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and magma crystallization.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics, glassmaking, precision instruments, and as a popular gemstone or lapidary material.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits strong piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found globally.
