mineral

Quartz (Clear 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 May 30, 2026More mineral →

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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

Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or via hydrothermal activity in veins. Found in all three rock types (igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary) across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (gemstones), and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and hexagonal crystal habit. Found globally in granitic rocks and mountainous regions.