mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Clear to white
- Luster
- Vitreous/glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to white; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), glass-making, abrasives, construction (sand), and as gemstones in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (it scratches glass), conchoidal fracture (curved surfaces), and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in almost every geological setting.
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