mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

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

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal activity in veins. Found in various geological environments including igneous pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. Most specimens are millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glassmaking, construction (sand), jewelry, and as a gemstone for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is traditionally called rock crystal. It has the rare property of generating an electric charge when mechanically stressed (piezoelectricity).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage (breaks like glass into curved surfaces). Found globally, with high-quality deposits in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.