mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Varies widely (often white, milky, or colorless); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Varies widely (often white, milky, or colorless)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, predominantly crystallizing from silicate melts in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites, as well as precipitating from hydrothermal solutions and sedimentary processes.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing of glass, ceramics, abrasives, and as gemstones or mineral specimens in jewelry and collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals found on Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to applied mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide in veins, pegmatites, and as a primary component of sand.