mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color is typically colorless, white, or various shades of yellow/brown (like citrine or smoky quartz). Luster is vitreous (glassy). Crystal system is hexagonal (trigonal). Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Color is typically colorless, white, or various shades of yellow/brown (like citrine or smoky quartz). Luster is vitreous (glassy). Crystal system is hexagonal (trigonal). Conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage. Specific gravity is 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most commonly as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, in hydrothermal veins, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics (oscillators, watches), glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental carvings.
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 by its characteristic hardness of 7 (scratches glass easily), vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost every geological setting.
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