mineral

Quartz crystal

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely a natural or lightly damaged crystal

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; colorless to milky translucent, with vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture. It has a trigonal crystal structure, typically showing hexagonal-prismatic habits, though this specimen appears broken or irregular.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, or cavities in igneous and metamorphic rocks; individual crystals may range from ancient to geologically recent. The image alone cannot establish its specific deposit or age.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, countertops, and scientific instruments; clear crystals are collected or used decoratively. This small, included specimen has modest gem value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge when mechanically stressed. Its transparency and internal fractures can resemble glass, but its greater hardness distinguishes it.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by glassy luster, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch it with a steel blade; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, Arkansas, the Alps, and many granite- and vein-hosted regions.