Wise geologists, who have memorable experiences with quartzites, hit them with a rock hammer only when necessary. If a freshly broken piece is needed for examination, they break off a small protrusion with a light tap. That small piece is usually more than enough.

Avoid hitting quartzite with a forceful blow of a rock hammer. It’s not a good idea. If you must use your hammer on quartzite, be sure that you are wearing impact-resistant goggles, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy shoes.

A sharp hammer blow often bounces off. That bounce can cause injury. So, hit the rock at an angle at which a bounce will not send the head of the rock hammer into your shin.

Instead of bending over to strike the rock, it is often better to get down on one knee and strike the rock with a downward motion. Then, when the rock breaks, the hammer and most of the broken pieces of rock will fly down and hit the ground.

Be certain that nearby field partners are warned and safely away. Hold the base of your goggles with your free hand before striking the rock. That will protect the lower half of your face from sparks and sharp flakes of high velocity rock. You have been warned.