mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on Mohs scale, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and 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 Mohs scale, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through cooling magmas or precipitation from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in electronics, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a popular gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high hardness, lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture; found worldwide in virtually all geological settings.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Feldspar
Feldspar Group (Tectosilicate, e.g., KAlSi3O8)
mineral