While the Ferris Consortium holds a near monopoly on all mining operations on Sanderra that monopoly is not complete, and the city of Quartz is a good example.

The town was originally centered around independent gold mines in the Quartz Hills east of Speedwell.  Although only a few small mines are still in operation in the area, the town has grown into a pleasant Bedroom community (estimated population 30,000). 

Bordered on the East, West and South by small suburban developments,

the city itself offers a wide variety of housing options,

as well as some local jobs in the "Bluestone Business District".

Come on, my friends, Let's make for the hills.

They say there's gold but I'm looking for thrills.

You can get your hands on whatever we find,

Because I'm only coming along for the ride.

- R. Waters, D. Gilmour