mineral

Quartz Crystal (specifically a Double-Terminated variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Low Quartz

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (Clear); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless (Clear)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (Clear); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where silica-rich fluids cool and crystallize in rock cavities. This specimen is double-terminated, indicating it grew freely in a pocket of fluid or mud rather than being attached to a host rock base.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties (oscillators, watches), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry, and widely collected as metaphysical 'healing' crystals.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Double-terminated crystals like this one are often referred to as 'Herkimer Diamonds' if they originate from Herkimer County, New York, though the term is technically specific to that location.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 6-sided hexagonal prism shape and its ability to scratch glass. Commonly found in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and geodes. Collectors look for clarity, lack of internal fractures, and the presence of natural 'points' on both ends.

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