mineral
Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7, transparent to colorless, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture without cleavage.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7, transparent to colorless, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture without cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Crystallizes from silica-rich magmas in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins under variable temperatures and pressures.
Uses & applications
Used widely in jewelry, gemstone faceting, precision electronics (piezoelectric oscillators), and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Ancient Greeks believed rock crystal was permanently frozen ice that could never melt, coining the word 'krystallos'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7), hexagonal crystal forms or fragments, and absence of air bubbles typical of glass.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous