mineral
Tumbled clear quartz (rock crystal)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; colorless to translucent, with a vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears tumbled/polished, with internal fractures producing white reflective flashes; quartz is trigonal and has no cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; colorless to translucent, with a vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears tumbled/polished, with internal fractures producing white reflective flashes; quartz is trigonal and has no cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and igneous rocks across much of Earth’s geologic history. This piece is human-shaped and polished rather than naturally weathered.
Uses & applications
Used for ornaments, carvings, metaphysical objects, abrasives, glass, electronics, and scientific instruments; gem-quality clear quartz has modest jewelry value.
Geological facts
Clear quartz is piezoelectric, generating an electrical charge under pressure and enabling quartz-clock oscillators. Internal fractures can create attractive “snowy” or rainbow-like reflections.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not be confused with man-made glass, which is typically softer and may contain bubbles. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Arkansas, and the Alps.
