mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; colorless or transparent; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified August 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; colorless or transparent; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent of many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics, watchmaking, optical instruments, glass manufacturing, jewelry, and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Clear quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust and exhibits piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electrical charge under mechanical stress.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its high hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Brazil, the US, Madagascar, and the Alps.