mineral
Quartz (likely heat-treated or colored cord)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to pale yellow (Citrine-like); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Clear to pale yellow (Citrine-like)
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to pale yellow (Citrine-like); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. These specific beads appear to be clear quartz that may have been heat-treated or are reflecting the red color of the elastic cord used to string them.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry, watchmaking (piezoelectric properties), glassmaking, and for metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is often found as macrocrystalline varieties like Amethyst, Citrine, and Smoky Quartz.
Field identification & locations
Look for internal fractures and bubble-free clarity in natural specimens. Quartz will scratch glass but cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Common worldwide, with major mining in Brazil and Madagascar.
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