mineral

Clear quartz crystal

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Colorless to translucent, vitreous luster, hardness 7 Mohs, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and a trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears to be a naturally terminated or broken, slightly weathered crystal.

Identified August 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, or igneous and metamorphic rocks over broad geological timescales. It is common from Precambrian to recent environments.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, electronics, abrasives, optical components, and ornamental collecting; transparent crystals may have modest gem or display value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge when mechanically stressed.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and characteristic six-sided crystal form when well developed. Common worldwide, especially in Arkansas, Brazil, Madagascar, and alpine veins.