mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear to white with yellowish iron staining, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true 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, color ranges from clear to white with yellowish iron staining, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often precipitates from hydrothermal solutions or crystallizes from silica-rich magmas.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasive materials, gemstone carving, and ornamental 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 can generate an electrical charge when mechanical stress is applied.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found worldwide in almost every geological setting, making it a staple for field collectors.
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
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral