mineral
Rock Crystal (Clear Quartz)
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, colorless and transparent with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, colorless and transparent with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during the cooling of silica-rich magma across various geological periods.
Uses & applications
Commonly faceted into beads, carved for ornamental objects, and used in jewelry, electronics, and precision optics.
Geological facts
Ancient Greeks believed rock crystal was permanently frozen ice that could never melt, giving rise to the term 'krystallos'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high clarity, scratch resistance to glass and steel, and cool feel to the touch compared to synthetic glass or plastic.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous