mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless/Transparent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry, watchmaking (piezoelectric properties), glassmaking, electronics, and as a popular decorative or healing stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz, traditionally called rock crystal, was once thought to be permanently frozen ice by ancient Greeks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hexagonal crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. Found worldwide in mountain ranges and riverbeds; especially prominent in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.
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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