metamorphic
White Quartzite
Quartzite (primarily SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light grey; Luster: vitreous or dull; Crystal structure: hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- white to light grey
- Luster
- vitreous or dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light grey; Luster: vitreous or dull; Crystal structure: hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. High heat and pressure cause quartz grains to recrystallize and fuse together into a dense, crystalline rock.
Uses & applications
Used in construction as crushed stone or dimensional stone for countertops and flooring. High-purity quartzite is used in glassmaking and to produce silicon metal.
Geological facts
Quartzite is so tough that it often survives intense weathering better than other rocks, frequently forming the caps of ridges and mountains. It is harder than steel and will easily scratch a glass plate.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel blade) and its grainy, sugary appearance despite being very dense. Commonly found in folded mountain ranges.
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