mineral

Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), optical instruments, jewelry, glassmaking, and widely collected as metaphysical 'healing' crystals or mineral specimens.

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 pressure is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its six-sided (hexagonal) prism shape terminating in a pyramid, its ability to scratch glass, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found globally, notably in Brazil and Arkansas, USA.