mineral

White Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

Explore White Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide range of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary component of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, decorative carvings, manufacturing of glass and ceramics, electronics, and quartz crystal oscillators.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, surpassed only by feldspar. It exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it generates an electrical charge when mechanical stress is applied.

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.