Where is Quartzite found?
Metamorphic rock, predominantly quartz
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Open the appQuartzite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Quartzite
Appalachian Mountains, USA
Extensive quartzite formations are found throughout the Appalachian Orogen, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, where they form prominent ridges due to their resistance to erosion.
Baraboo Range, Wisconsin, USA
Known for its distinctive Baraboo Quartzite, a Precambrian formation that forms a prominent topographic feature.
Scotland
Significant quartzite occurrences are found in the Scottish Highlands, forming part of the Caledonian Orogen.
Brazil
Large deposits of high-quality quartzite are found, particularly in Minas Gerais, used extensively for dimension stone.
India
Various regions, including Rajasthan and parts of the Himalayas, contain significant quartzite deposits.
South Africa
The Witwatersrand Basin contains extensive quartzite layers, which are economically significant due to their association with gold deposits.
Collecting tips
- Look for resistant ridges and outcrops. Quartzite is highly resistant to erosion, so it often forms prominent ridges, hills, and cliffs in metamorphic terrains. Look for areas with exposed bedrock that stands out topographically.
- Examine the texture. Distinguish quartzite from sandstone by examining the fracture. Quartzite breaks across the quartz grains, creating a smooth, conchoidal fracture surface that often cuts through the original sand grains. Sandstone, conversely, tends to break around the individual sand grains, leaving a gritty texture.
- Test hardness. Quartzite is very hard (Mohs 7). It will scratch steel and glass. This can help differentiate it from softer rocks.
- Check for metamorphic associations. Quartzite is typically found in regions that have undergone regional metamorphism. Look for it in association with other metamorphic rocks like schists, gneisses, and slates.
- Safety Precautions. Quartzite contains a high percentage of crystalline silica. When cutting, grinding, or crushing quartzite, fine silica dust (respirable crystalline silica) can be generated. Inhalation of this dust can lead to silicosis, a serious and potentially fatal lung disease, as well as other respiratory illnesses and increased risk of lung cancer. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including NIOSH-approved respirators (e.g., N95 or P100), and employ dust control measures (e.g., wet cutting, local exhaust ventilation) when working with quartzite. Avoid prolonged exposure to airborne silica dust. Always wear eye protection and sturdy gloves when handling or breaking rock samples.
Quick Check
- Color:
- White, gray, pink, red, yellow, green, blue
- Luster:
- Vitreous to greasy
- Streak:
- White (as it is composed primarily of quartz)
Explore Quartzite
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