mineral

Clear Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to white. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal system, commonly forming six-sided prisms terminating in six-sided pyramids. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Colorless to white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, most notably in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Can form over millions of years as silica-rich fluids cool and precipitate.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing of glass and ceramics, optical lenses, gemstone carvings, jewelry, and widely popular in crystal healing and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust, after feldspar. Due to its piezoelectric properties, it is used to regulate frequency in watches and electronic devices.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct hexagonal crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and high hardness (scratches glass). Found globally, with notable fine specimens coming from Brazil, Arkansas (USA), Madagascar, and the Alps.