Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) · Mineral Specimen / Semi-Precious
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically forming prismatic crystals, massive aggregates, or rounded pebbles
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Forms via igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes, often crystallizing from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma
About This Crystal
Small, worn, whitish-clear pebble or crystal fragment with minor earthy surface staining, displaying a translucent to sub-translucent appearance and a vitreous to waxy luster
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from white to colorless with brownish surface staining; white streak; conchoidal fracture; no true cleavage; specific gravity around 2.65; brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Singly refractive or uniaxial positive with a refractive index of approximately 1.544 to 1.553, lacking significant birefringence or pleochroism in this form
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide distribution; commonly found in riverbeds, beach sand, and various geological formations globally
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; high durability and resistance to scratching, making it very suitable for general handling, though subject to impact fracturing
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and extreme thermal shock; store away from softer stones that it might scratch
Rarity & Value
Extremely common worldwide; low commercial value for small tumbled or raw pebble specimens unless exceptional color or clarity is present
Special Characteristics
May exhibit piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties under specific physical conditions; common quartz lacks rare optical anomalies unless specifically modified
Lore & History
Historically used across many ancient cultures for tools, ornaments, and amulets; in modern crystal lore, quartz is widely regarded as a master healer stone associated with all chakras, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific facts