mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear/white to pink/brown/grey, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear/white to pink/brown/grey, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, frequently crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary component of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators, quartz clocks), glass manufacturing, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental items
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust; piezoelectric quartz is used to convert mechanical stress into electrical voltage and vice versa
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture; found worldwide in almost every rock type
