mineral

Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless to milky white
Luster: Vitreous

Identified January 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of molten rock or precipitation from hydrothermal veins, clear quartz is found in various geological environments from igneous to metamorphic terrains and can range from millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry making, watchmaking (piezoelectric properties), glass manufacturing, electronics, and as a popular specimen for collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

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.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. It is commonly found worldwide, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (Arkansas). Collectors should look for high clarity and well-defined crystal faces.

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