mineral

White Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white or milky color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and a specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white or milky color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and a specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in a wide variety of geological environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often precipitating from hydrothermal solutions rich in silica over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, decorative carvings, glassmaking, electronics (quartz crystal oscillators), and abrasives.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. Its piezoelectric properties make it vital for modern timekeeping and electronics.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and distinct conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological setting.