mineral

Clear Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless/Transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless/Transparent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in various geological environments but most commonly from the cooling of magma in igneous rocks or from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, glassmaking, clocks (as an oscillator), jewelry, and as a popular collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal, and it has been used since antiquity for carvings and decorative items.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), hexagonal crystal habit with horizontal striations on faces, and lack of cleavage. Found globally, especially in mountainous regions like the Alps, Brazil, and Arkansas.