mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from clear/colorless to white, gray, brown, or yellowish-brown due to iron staining; vitreous to greasy luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage; specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; color ranges from clear/colorless to white, gray, brown, or yellowish-brown due to iron staining; vitreous to greasy 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 rocks like granites and pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic and sedimentary rocks as detrital grains.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone or mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it vital for keeping time in quartz watches.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
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