mineral

Quartz (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 February 21, 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

Forms in a wide range of environments including igneous (granitic pegmatites), metamorphic (quartzite), and sedimentary (hydrothermal veins) processes. It can form across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glass manufacturing, abrasives, jewelry, and gemstone collecting. Highly valued in 'healing crystal' communities.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure specimens are known as 'Rock Crystal', a name derived from the Greek word 'krustallos' meaning ice, because ancients believed it was permanently frozen ice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and hexagonal crystal prisms if intact. Found globally in almost any mountain range or riverbed.

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