metamorphic
Quartzite with inclusions
Metamorphosed quartz sandstone
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, predominantly white or light grey with dark contrasting mineral inclusions (such as hematite or dark silicates), vitreous to greasy luster, non-foliated massive crystal structure, concoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, predominantly white or light grey with dark contrasting mineral inclusions (such as hematite or dark silicates), vitreous to greasy luster, non-foliated massive crystal structure, concoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from quartz-rich sandstone subjected to high heat and pressure during regional or contact metamorphism, often occurring in mountain-building or ancient cratonic environments.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in construction, road aggregate, manufacturing of silica bricks, and occasionally as decorative stone or tumbled specimens for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartzite is extremely durable and resistant to chemical weathering, which is why quartz-rich parent rocks often form prominent ridges and mountains as the surrounding rock erodes away.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its high hardness (scratches glass easily, cannot be scratched by a knife) and lack of effervescence with acid. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and ancient orogenic belts worldwide.
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