mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies widely, commonly white, grey, or colorless, but can be tinted by impurities. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified August 4, 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

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide range of geological environments, most notably as a primary component of 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, foundry sands, gemstone carving, and jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it generates an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in almost all geological settings.