mineral

Clear Quartz (Rock Crystal)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Colorless and transparent
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Typically crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling magma over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (oscillators), manufacturing glass, jewelry, abrasives, and as a popular metaphysical or collectible specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is known as rock crystal, while impurities create amethyst, citrine, and rose quartz variants.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil, the United States (Arkansas), and Madagascar.