Mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

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

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (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 cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It can occur in all geological ages and is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry (gemstones), and decorative carvings.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Ancient civilizations believed it was permanent ice formed by the gods. It is the defining mineral for hardness 7 on the Mohs scale.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and steel, lack of cleavage, and common six-sided prism shape. It is found worldwide, notably in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.