mineral
Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Colorless/Transparent
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, most often from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in electronics (piezoelectric properties), glassmaking, jewelry, sandpaper, and as healing crystals in the metaphysical community.
Geological facts
Quartz is the source of the term 'crystal,' derived from the Greek word 'krystallos,' meaning ice, as ancient Greeks believed quartz was ice frozen so hard it would never melt.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), transparency, and lacks cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and geodes worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous