mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in various geological environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma in igneous rocks like granite, or through hydrothermal veins and metamorphic processes. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry, watchmaking (quartz oscillators), electronics, glassmaking, and as abrasive material. It is a popular specimen for crystal collectors and meditation practitioners.

Geological facts

Clear Quartz is often called 'Rock Crystal.' The word 'quartz' comes from the German word 'quarz.' Ancient Greeks believed it was ice that had frozen so hard it would never melt.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), glassy luster, and typical six-sided hexagonal prisms with pyramid-like terminations. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.