mineral
Clear Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Colorless/Transparent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral →
Explore Clear Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal activity in veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics (as oscillators), optical instruments, glass manufacturing, abrasives, and widely in jewelry and metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is traditionally called rock crystal or clear quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Often found in geodes or as tumbled stones in riverbeds. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.
More like this
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
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock