mineral

Clear quartz (likely rough quartz crystal)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless and transparent to translucent, with a glassy luster, conchoidal fracture, and no cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded, irregular shape suggests it may be a broken or tumbled piece rather than a complete crystal.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, igneous pegmatites, and sedimentary veins; quartz occurs in rocks ranging from Precambrian to modern age. The image alone cannot establish locality or age.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and watches; transparent, attractive pieces may be cut as inexpensive gemstones or kept as specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining mineral of many sands and granites. It can resemble glass, but genuine quartz is harder and commonly shows natural fracture patterns or crystal faces.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, especially in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and quartz-rich gravels. Test cautiously: it should scratch ordinary glass, but not be scratched by a steel knife; visual identification is not definitive.