mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless/Transparent
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal activity in veins. It can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as a gemstone), and as a popular metaphysical or decorative collector's stone.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Historically, the Greeks believed crystal quartz was ice that had frozen so hard it would never melt.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and hexagonal crystal habit when natural. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and geodes worldwide.