mineral

Clear quartz crystal

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; transparent to translucent, colorless to pale champagne; vitreous luster and hexagonal prismatic crystal structure with pointed terminations. Quartz lacks cleavage and has conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Identified September 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cooling igneous melts precipitate quartz in veins, cavities, and pegmatites. The specimen’s exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, oscillators, abrasives, and optical instruments; attractive crystals are sold as decor or metaphysical specimens rather than jewelry-grade gems.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure. The pale coloration may reflect iron staining, inclusions, or surface coating, while the elongated shape is typical of natural quartz growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and hexagonal prism/termination; common worldwide in granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Value is typically $5–$30 for a small ordinary crystal, or $50–$200+ if unusually clear, large, or locality-proven.