mineral

Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)

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 June 11, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

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 through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling of igneous magmas. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, found in environments ranging from pegmatites to sedimentary pockets.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), optical instruments, glassmaking, jewelry (as semi-precious gemstones), and widely collected for metaphysical purposes or as mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is piezo-electric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied. It has been used throughout history for stone tools and ritual objects.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 6-sided hexagonal prism shape ending in pyramids, its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7), and the lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved shell-like patterns). Very common in mountain ranges and riverbeds.