Quartz (Milky/Clear Quartz)

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless to white/milky. Luster: Vitreous/glassy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & Geological History

Forms in a wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma or hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks across all geological ages.

Uses & Applications

Extensively used in electronics (oscillators), glass making, abrasives, construction (sand), and as a gemstone in jewelry or for metaphysical collecting.

Geological Facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which has Slavic origins meaning 'hard'. It exhibits piezoelectricity, generating an electric charge under mechanical stress.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel file) and its characteristic conchoidal fracture which looks like broken glass. Found globally in mountains and stream beds.

Identified on: 4/21/2026

Mode: Standard