mineral
Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colorless or white, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colorless or white, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in virtually all geological environments—igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks—often crystallizing from hydrothermal veins or silica-rich magmas over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in electronics (oscillators, watches), glassmaking, abrasives, construction materials, and as a gemstone or ornamental mineral.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge when mechanical stress is applied.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and typical crystal habits. Found globally on every continent.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral