mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to colorless (milky); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to colorless (milky)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to colorless (milky); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used widely in glass making, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction as a component of concrete, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It can withstand significant chemical and physical weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most beach sands.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. It is found globally, particularly in mountainous regions and riverbeds.