mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Common in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a gemstone or ornamental stone.
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 mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and vitreous luster. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic