mineral

Quartz (Clear Quartz)

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 May 24, 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

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal fluids. It can form at various geological ages and is highly stable at the Earth's surface.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronic oscillators (piezoelectric properties), jewelry (semi-precious gemstone), and as a metaphysical/collectible specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It exhibits piezoelectricity, meaning it can generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress. The name comes from the German word 'quarz'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in smooth curves like glass). Found globally, often in riverbeds, mountains, and geodes.