mineral
White Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- White to milky white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, commonly precipitating from hydrothermal veins, or as a primary component of igneous rocks like granite and metamorphic rocks like quartzite.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, gemstone carvings, and decorative aggregate.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant and widespread minerals found on Earth's continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hardness of 7 which easily scratches glass. Found globally.
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