mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; varies in color from colorless to white, gray, yellow, brown, or pink; vitreous (glassy) luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; varies in color from colorless to white, gray, yellow, brown, or pink; vitreous (glassy) luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often crystallizes from hydrothermal solutions or silica-rich magmas.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics, oscillators, glassmaking, abrasives, gemstone carvings, and decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in almost all types of rock formations.
