Check that the mineral you are looking at is quartzite. Do this by performing a visual examination. Quartzite appears to be made from crystals, and has a rough surface. It is also very hard, so squeeze it to test and see whether it crumbles.
Switch on a bright light. You can use a lamp, room light or even sunlight on a bright, sunny day. Luster is defined as the gloss or shine of a mineral or gem. It is a measurement of how well it reflects light. For identifying luster, it is therefore important that you can see the mineral clearly, with light reflecting off its surface.
Hold the rock up to the light and turn it slowly so it picks up the rays of the light sufficiently for thorough observation.
Look closely at the surface of the rock, and look at how the light reflects. Quartzite varies in color, shape and size; so each rock will reflect differently. However, there are specific terms used to describe it's luster.
Consider whether the luster is metallic or non-metallic. This type of luster is common on silvery colored quartzite, which is similar to metals such as tin or aluminium. The luster is shiny, like aluminum foil. If the quartzite is metallic, but dull -- instead of shiny -- then, according to Mineralogical Society of America, the luster is identified as "sub-metallic".
Assess whether the quartzite sparkles in the light. If it is dull and does not shine, then it has an "earth or "dull" luster. A dull appearance can also apply to metallic-looking quartzite, such as Anglesite. An "earth" luster has an organic look with no metallic characteristics.
Decide which characteristic the quartzite matches more closely out of pearly, silky or adamantine. A pearly luster has an even, watery shine -- like light reflecting off a lake. A silky luster has a smooth and shiny finish, whereas an adamantine luster twinkles -- like a gem.
Rotate the quartzite once more in the light. If it has a greasy luster you will be able notice an oily sheen on the rock's surface. This is the luster of cancrinite or nepheline.