mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, varies in color (clear, white, yellow, brown, amber), vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65

Identified August 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, varies in color (clear, white, yellow, brown, amber), vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, frequently crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma, and commonly found in pegmatites, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic quartzites

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, watchmaking, glass manufacturing, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and lapidary arts

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found globally in virtually every rock type