Clear Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system, typically forming prismatic crystals terminated by six-sided pyramids in its natural unworked state, but presented here as a tumbled and polished smooth pebble.
Mineral Group
Silicate mineral group, specifically belonging to the tectosilicate subgroup.
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Forms primarily through hydrothermal processes at various temperatures, as well as crystallizing from silica-rich magmas in pegmatites and igneous rocks, and precipitating in sedimentary environments.
About This Crystal
A small, tumbled, and polished pocket stone of clear quartz exhibiting a transparent to translucent appearance with a vitreous to greasy luster. Internal fractures and minor cloudiness create a characteristic internal fractured network typical of tumbled quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Colorless body color with a white streak, exhibiting conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage planes, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and typically inert under UV light though some localities show weak phosphorescence.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, and a birefringence of 0.009. It displays no notable pleochroism due to being colorless.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally abundant with major commercial sources located in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Himalayan regions of India and Tibet.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it quite durable for everyday wear and jewelry use, with good resistance to scratching from everyday materials like glass and steel.
Care & Maintenance
Extremely durable and easy to care for; can be cleaned safely using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh hydrofluoric acid, but it withstands standard household cleaning agents well.
Rarity & Value
Very common and widely available, making it highly affordable with low commercial value unless exceptionally clear or containing rare inclusions.
Special Characteristics
Displays strong piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties, generating an electrical charge under mechanical stress or temperature change.
Lore & History
Historically revered by ancient civilizations including the Romans, Egyptians, and Indigenous peoples as a powerful healing stone and a conduit for spiritual energy. In modern crystal healing, it is known as the 'master healer' and is associated with all chakras, particularly the Crown chakra.