mineral

Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless/white (milky); Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: typically colorless/white (milky)
Luster: vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless/white (milky); Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed via the cooling of molten magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in rocks from virtually all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, gemstones for jewelry, and as a primary component in concrete and mortar.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical weathering. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Found globally in almost all geological environments, especially in river beds, beaches, and mountainous regions.