mineral
Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to transparent white. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless to transparent white
- Luster
- Vitreous (glass-like)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to transparent white. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, most commonly crystallized in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during cooling of silica-rich magma.
Uses & applications
Widely used in gemstone jewelry, ornamental carvings, glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric applications in quartz watches), and crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Ancient Greeks believed clear quartz was ice frozen so deeply that it would never melt, calling it 'krystallos'.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its glassy clarity, hardness (scratches glass and steel), and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in stream beds, pegmatites, and geodes worldwide.
