mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, white, colorless, or various shades depending on impurities; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, white, colorless, or various shades depending on impurities; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, watchmaking, optical instruments, glass manufacturing, and as gemstones or decorative mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits strong piezoelectric properties, making it essential for modern electronics.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide.
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