mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to clear color, vitreous luster, hexagonal 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 precipitating from hydrothermal solutions or crystallizing from silica-rich magma

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when compressed

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found worldwide in almost every geological setting