Clear Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) · Mineral Specimen / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically forming prismatic crystals terminated by six-sided pyramids
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic processes, crystallizing from silica-rich fluids at varying temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A small, translucent to transparent, whitish-clear crystalline fragment resting on a wooden surface next to a Rubik's cube, exhibiting a vitreous luster and irregular tabular or broken habit
Physical Characteristics
Colorless to white body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, low birefringence of 0.009, generally singly or doubly refractive depending on observation angle, no pleochroism in pure clear varieties
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide; notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alpine region
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable and suitable for general jewelry use, with good resistance to scratching though vulnerable to thermal shock
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoid harsh chemical cleaners, store separately to prevent scratching softer stones, and protect from sudden extreme temperature changes
Rarity & Value
Very common, highly abundant globally, with low monetary value for small or raw specimens, though high-clarity optical or large master crystals command higher collector prices
Special Characteristics
Exhibits piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties, generating an electric charge under mechanical stress or temperature changes
Lore & History
Widely regarded in crystal healing as the 'Master Healer,' associated with all chakras, amplification of energy, clarity of mind, and used historically across numerous ancient cultures for ornamentation and divination