mineral

Clear quartz crystal

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless to translucent, with a vitreous luster and hardness 7 on the Mohs scale. It has a trigonal crystal structure, conchoidal fracture, and no true cleavage; the specimen appears naturally terminated but irregularly fractured.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

Explore Clear quartz crystal in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids or melts crystallize in cavities, veins, and igneous rocks. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian to modern geological settings, so its exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, timekeeping, and laboratory instruments; clear crystals are also sold as decorative or metaphysical specimens and occasionally cut as gemstones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under mechanical stress. Its apparent internal fractures and cloudy areas are common growth or breakage features.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, pegmatites, geodes, and sedimentary gravel worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and China. Confirm with hardness testing: it should scratch ordinary glass, though testing may damage the specimen.