mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Colorless to white
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Colorless to white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or magma. Found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments worldwide.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (piezoelectric properties), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry, and as a popular collector specimen/metaphysical stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved, shell-like patterns). Found commonly in riverbeds and mountainous regions.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous