mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear, white, yellow, or various shades depending on impurities; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear, white, yellow, or various shades depending on impurities; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal veins, within igneous rocks like pegmatites and granites, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, and as a semi-precious gemstone or ornamental specimen in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals on Earth's continental crust. Its piezoelectric properties make it vital for electronic timing devices.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and typical conchoidal fracture. Found globally in almost every geological setting.
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