mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Quartz forms through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found across all geological ages and in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics (piezoelectric properties), glassmaking, abrasive manufacturing, construction, and as a gemstone for jewelry and ornamental carving.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. It was historically believed by some ancient cultures to be 'permanent ice' frozen by the gods.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass/steel), lack of true cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal fracture. Extremely common in granite and sandstone.