mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless/Transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or hydrothermal veins. Found in all types of geological environments (igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary) across all geological ages from billions of years ago to relatively recent.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties (clocks, radios), glassmaking, optical lenses, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and carving.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Historically, the Ancient Greeks believed quartz was ice that had frozen so hard it would never melt, hence the name 'krystallos' (ice).

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. It is found globally, particularly in pegmatites, river beds, and mountainous regions like the Alps or the Arkansas Ouachita Mountains.