metamorphic
Quartzite / Sandstone
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, beige, brown, or dirty white. Luster: Vitreous to dull/earthy. Texture: Granular, coarse-grained, rough fracture. Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan, beige, brown, or dirty white
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull/earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Tan, beige, brown, or dirty white. Luster: Vitreous to dull/earthy. Texture: Granular, coarse-grained, rough fracture. Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone under intense heat and pressure, or as a strongly cemented quartzose sedimentary sandstone.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction as dimension stone, crushed stone for road aggregates, ballast, and landscaping. High-purity quartzites are used in glass manufacturing.
Geological facts
Quartzite is extremely durable and resistant to chemical weathering. It can often be distinguished from sandstone because it fractures through the quartz grains rather than around them.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its sugary or granular interlocking quartz texture, high hardness (scratches glass), and resistance to weathering. Commonly found in mountainous or shield areas worldwide.
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