mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear to white, pink, or brownish, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from clear to white, pink, or brownish, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstones, and ornamental objects
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when compressed
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its hardness of 7 (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; found globally in almost every rock type
