mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on 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 crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal veins or within cooling igneous pegmatites. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), watchmaking (quartz movements), glass making, optics, and jewelry (as gemstones or beads). Also popular in spiritual and decorative collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied. It is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust after feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved, shell-like fractures). Found globally, with significant deposits in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar. Look for its characteristic hexagonal crystal habit.