mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color varies widely, commonly clear, white, gray, or smoky. Vitreous (glassy) luster. Trigonal crystal system, often forming six-sided prisms. Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color varies widely, commonly clear, white, gray, or smoky. Vitreous (glassy) luster. Trigonal crystal system, often forming six-sided prisms. Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most notably in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as hydrothermal veins, metamorphic quartzites, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing of glass and ceramics, ornamental items, and gemstone jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its distinctive crystal habit, high hardness (scratches glass), and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost every geological setting.
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