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Quartz

Its durability makes it great for more than just countertops.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is one of the most common and well-known minerals on the planet. In a high-purity form, this essential mineral is durable and chemically inert. It demonstrates excellent heat resistance as well as electrical properties.

Composed of silicon and oxygen atoms, quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the planet’s crust. It is present in granite and other igneous rocks and is common in sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone and shale, as well as schist, gneiss, quartzite, and other metamorphic rocks.

Fun Facts

  • The word quartz stems from the German word “quarz,” which is derived from the Slavic word for hardness: “kwardy.”
  • Many ancient and modern cultures believe quartz provides healing powers and can ward off headaches and other ailments.

Where to Find Quartz

Uses for Quartz

Aluminum, Iron, & Steel High-purity quartz pebbles are processed into silicon. In this form, it is an essential ingredient in the manufacture of ferro-alloys and silicon for aluminum alloy and silicone production.
Electronics High-purity quartz is widely used to transfer mechanical energy in electronics, radios, and watches. Electric currents from batteries and other power sources causes high-purity quartz to oscillate very accurately at high frequencies.
Interior Design Quartz is combined with resins and polyesters to make durable counter tops, walls, and floors. It is also a component in most granite counters, giving them a shiny high-gloss appearance.
Photovoltaics Photovoltaics is the conversion of light into electricity using semiconducting materials. Photovoltaics generate electricity and can power anything from small electronics to homes and big businesses. These products last up to 30 years but can be reused or refurbished if recycled properly. High-purity quartz is an ideal material for manufacturing cup or bowl-shaped containers called “crucibles” that are used to hold and heat materials for casting the silicon photovoltaic cells that make up solar panels and semiconductors. Quartz is an essential mineral in the production of monocrystalline silicon solar cells, which are the highest efficiency among photovoltaic products.
Zero-Energy Buildings Energy-efficient windows are made from quartz (silica). These windows are essential in the construction of zero-energy buildings. Extremely pure quartz is also a vital resource for solar cell producers and in the semiconductor industry. The solar cell industry requires highly-refined raw materials, including very pure quartz.

Related Resources

USGS Silica Mineral Commodity Summary

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