mineral

Clear Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

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

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal activity in veins and geodes. It can be found in rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry, and as a popular specimen for gemstone collectors and metaphysical uses.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It was historically used to make hardstone carvings and is the primary component of most sand.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and hexagonal crystal habit if intact. Found globally, especially in mountainous regions and riverbeds.