mineral

Clear quartz crystal

Quartz (SiO₂), likely a natural crystal point

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 on the Mohs scale; colorless to translucent with a vitreous luster and hexagonal crystal structure. Quartz has no cleavage and breaks with a conchoidal fracture; the image shows a rough, partly terminated crystal.

Identified September 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz formed across many geological ages; the specimen’s age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Commonly collected and used for ornaments and jewelry; industrial quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, and electronics.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and occurs in many colors. Its hardness and lack of cleavage help distinguish it from softer, cleavable lookalikes.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy transparency, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and no obvious cleavage; crystal points commonly have six-sided prisms and pyramidal ends. Found worldwide, including Brazil, the United States, and Madagascar.