mineral

Quartz (specifically Clear Quartz with iron/hematite staining)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to pale brownish/orange due to surface oxidation; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless to pale brownish/orange due to surface oxidation
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions cooling in rock cavities or pegmatites. This specimen likely comes from a vug or pocket where it had space to develop its characteristic prismatic habit. Staining suggests exposure to iron-rich water.

Uses & applications

Abrasives, glass manufacturing, gemstones, and electronics (due to piezoelectric properties). Highly popular in metaphysical markets and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezoelectric, meaning it generates an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress, which is why it's used in watches and clocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its six-sided prismatic shape, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass easily. Commonly found worldwide, with major commercial deposits in Brazil and Arkansas, USA. Collectors should look for terminations without chips or 'damage' and clear transparency.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral