mineral
Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless and transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless and transparent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glass-like)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless and transparent; 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. Typically crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling magma over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing glass, jewelry, abrasives, and as a popular metaphysical or collectible specimen.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal, while impurities create amethyst, citrine, and rose quartz variants.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil, the United States (Arkansas), and Madagascar.
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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
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock