mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Transparent to translucent, colorless, or white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal system, commonly forming six-sided prisms. Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Transparent to translucent, colorless, or white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most notably in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstone jewelry, and decorative objects.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it invaluable in modern technology for measuring precise time and frequencies.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct hexagonal crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and hardness of 7 which easily scratches glass. Found globally, particularly in pegmatites and quartz veins.