mineral

Quartz (Crystalline Cluster)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Translucent white to tan/yellowish (likely due to iron staining). Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) prisms. Cleavage: Indistinct/conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma. This specific cluster likely grew in a cavity (vug) within an igneous or sedimentary host rock. It can be found in geological formations ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (as oscillators), glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (as semi-precious gemstones), and as popular specimens for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and its lack of cleavage. Common in granite veins and as drusy coatings in geodes. Found globally, with massive deposits in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and Madagascar.