mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified April 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly by crystallization from molten magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), watchmaking, glass manufacturing, abrasives, and extensively in jewelry and gemstone collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7), hexagonal crystal habit (if present), and conchoidal (shell-like) fracture pattern. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges and riverbeds.