mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; SG: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Colorless/transparent
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/transparent; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; SG: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal fluids. Occurs across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glass manufacturing, abrasives, and extensively in jewelry and gemstone collections.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the Greek word 'krustallos', meaning ice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its transparency, 6-sided hexagonal crystal habit, and ability to scratch glass but not topaz. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges like the Alps or Brazil.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock