mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear, white, gray, or various tinges; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Clear, white, gray, or various tinges
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified August 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear, white, gray, or various tinges; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often precipitating from hydrothermal solutions or crystallizing from silica-rich magma.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, manufacturing of glass, ceramics, abrasives, and as gemstone or decorative specimens in jewelry and collecting.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Found globally in almost all rock types.