mineral

Quartz (Milky/Clear variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Variable (this specimen is clear to milky white); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Variable (this specimen is clear to milky white)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in all types of geological environments and spans almost every geological age.

Uses & applications

Used widely in electronics (oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (gemstones), and as a popular collector's mineral for metaphysical or aesthetic purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is piezo-electric, meaning it generates an electric charge when mechanical pressure is applied, which is why it is used in watches and clocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and typical six-sided prism terminations if crystals are intact. Commonly found in granite outcrops, riverbeds, and mountain veins.