mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on Mohs scale, typically peach or orange color due to inclusions, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, 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, typically peach or orange color due to inclusions, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed via crystallization from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma, commonly found in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry as a gemstone, decorative carvings, glassmaking, electronics, and oscillators.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, generating an electric charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found globally in almost all geological environments.
