mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless/Transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from the cooling of silica-rich magma or in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. It is found in all types of geological environments and can date back billions of years depending on the host rock.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (as oscillators), glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and metaphysical practices. Also used as a gemstone in carvings and beads.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is perfectly transparent, but impurities can turn it into amethyst, citrine, or smoky quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally, especially in mountainous regions or creek beds. Look for its characteristic 6-sided crystal shape if not tumbled or broken.