mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: Clear, white, gray, or pale pink, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, Color: Clear, white, gray, or pale pink, 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, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, watchmaking, glass manufacture, abrasive materials, and as gemstones or ornamental mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. Due to its piezoelectric properties, it is extensively used in electronic devices to generate precise frequency signals.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and vitreous luster. Found worldwide in nearly every type of geological terrain.