mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, lacks distinct cleavage, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65, often translucent to transparent, varying in color from clear to milky white.
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, lacks distinct cleavage, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity of 2.65, often translucent to transparent, varying in color from clear to milky white.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide range of environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, precision instruments, abrasive materials, and as a gemstone or ornamental mineral.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential for keeping time in quartz watches.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all geological settings.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral