mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Colorless to transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 Mohs
Color: Colorless to transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Colorless to transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly by crystallization from molten magma or through hydrothermal activity in pegmatites and veins. It is found across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), watchmaking, glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and as a popular collector's mineral.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical stress is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic hexagonal crystal points or conchoidal (curving) fracture surfaces.