mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colorless or white (can be various colors depending on impurities), vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colorless or white (can be various colors depending on impurities), vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a primary constituent of granite and sandstone and precipitates from hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to applied mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost every type of rock environment.