Rock Identifier

mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, colorless when pure but can be yellow, white, or various colors due to impurities.

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, colorless when pure but can be yellow, white, or various colors due to impurities.

Formation & geological history

Formed in almost all geological environments; crystallizes from cooling magma, precipitates from hydrothermal fluids, and forms in sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), jewelry (semi-precious gemstones), and as an abrasive in construction.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is a defining component of granite and many sandstones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and crystal shape. It is found globally in riverbeds, mountains, and beaches.

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Other mineral specimens

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions) (Arenite (SiO2 based)) — sedimentary

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

Mineral Sand (Heavy Mineral Sand Concentrate) (Placer deposit concentrate containing minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and magnetite) — mineral

Mineral Sand (Heavy Mineral Sand Concentrate)

Placer deposit concentrate containing minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and magnetite

Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining (Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides) — mineral

Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining

Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides

Septarian Pebble (Septarian nodule / Concretion) — sedimentary

Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments (Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate) — sedimentary

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

Schist (Schist) — Metamorphic

Schist

Schist