mineral

Clear Quartz Crystal

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs)
Color: Colorless to milky white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Colorless to milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, primarily through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions in veins and cavities. It can form at various temperatures and pressures over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry as a gemstone, in electronics as oscillators (piezoelectric properties), in glass making, and as a popular metaphysical or decorative collector specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It was historically believed by ancient Greeks to be ice that had frozen so hard it would never melt, hence the name 'krystallos' (ice).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its distinct six-sided prismatic habit with pyramidal terminations, and lack of cleavage. Found globally, with major deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and Arkansas, USA.