Rock Identifier
Clear Quartz Cluster (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Clear Quartz Cluster

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to transparent white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Color
Colorless to transparent white
Luster
Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to transparent white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. It can be found in almost all geological ages, often as a late-stage mineral in igneous rocks or as a precipitate in sedimentary cavities.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in electronics (piezoelectric oscillators), glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry (as rock crystal), and widely used by lapidary collectors and for spiritual/metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz, like this specimen, is often called 'rock crystal.' It was historically used to carve crystal balls and fancy drinking cups.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass easily), hexagonal crystal points, and lack of cleavage. Common worldwide, but high-quality clusters are frequently sourced from Brazil and Arkansas, USA.