mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically colorless or white, but can be found in various colors depending on 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 →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a primary component of pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sandstones, and crystallizes from silica-rich solutions and magmas.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators, watches), glassware, ceramics, abrasives, and as gemstones or decorative specimens in jewelry and crystal collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it essential for modern timekeeping and electronics.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its characteristic crystal habit (hexagonal prisms), lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hardness (scratches glass). Found globally in almost every geological setting.