metamorphic
Quartzite
Metamorphic Quartzite
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color typically ranges from white to gray, pink, or purple depending on impurities, vitreous to greasy luster, non-foliated crystal structure with interlocking quartz grains, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, color typically ranges from white to gray, pink, or purple depending on impurities, vitreous to greasy luster, non-foliated crystal structure with interlocking quartz grains, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed from quartz-rich sandstone or chert under high temperature and pressure associated with tectonic compression during regional metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in construction, as crushed stone for roads, for railway ballast, as a decorative facing stone, and occasionally in countertops.
Geological facts
Quartzite is extremely durable and weather-resistant, often forming prominent ridges and resistant mountain peaks because it weathers much slower than surrounding rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hard, non-foliated nature and inability to be scratched by a knife; it will also scratch glass easily. It occurs globally in ancient mountain belts.
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