White Quartz
Quartz (Silicified Mineral var. White Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, tumbling into a smooth, rounded pebble habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (specifically Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments; commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins and pegmatites
About This Crystal
A polished, tumbled smooth, opaque to translucent off-white to milky white quartz stone with a vitreous to waxy luster, displaying subtle internal fractures and minor mineral inclusions
Physical Characteristics
Color is milky white with colorless translucent patches, white streak, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and typically inert under UV light
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, birefringence of 0.009, doubly refractive, with no significant pleochroism
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Globally distributed; prominent sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability and wearability for jewelry, highly resistant to scratching, with no notable cleavage planes
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight if treated, store separately from softer stones
Rarity & Value
Common, very affordable, widely available globally, and rarely treated due to its abundance
Special Characteristics
Displays minor internal cloudiness and subtle fracture planes characteristic of common white quartz
Lore & History
Historically associated with purity, clarity, and spiritual awakening; used across various ancient cultures as an amulet and currently popular in crystal healing for cleansing energy and supporting the crown chakra