mineral

Clear quartz crystal (likely tumbled or polished)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless to translucent, with a vitreous luster and hexagonal crystal structure; Mohs hardness 7, no true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded, transparent specimen appears polished or naturally water-worn.

Identified August 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and igneous rocks, or forms in sedimentary veins; individual crystals may range from ancient Precambrian to geologically recent. The image alone cannot establish its exact locality or age.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; clear polished pieces are sold as inexpensive decorative or lapidary specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly contains internal fractures, veils, or bubbles that create reflective inclusions. Its hardness allows it to scratch ordinary glass, but it can be scratched by corundum and diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify by glassy luster, transparency, hardness, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; common worldwide, especially Brazil, Madagascar, Arkansas, and the Alps. A gemologist’s loupe and scratch testing can distinguish it from glass, though testing may damage the piece.