Clear Quartz
Quartz var. Clear Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, with a typical prismatic or massive habit, often found as tumbled stones
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, crystallizing from silica-rich solutions at varying temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A polished, tumbled specimen of transparent to translucent colorless quartz, exhibiting a vitreous luster with internal fractures and minor inclusions typical of natural quartz
Physical Characteristics
Colorless body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, completely lacks cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and exhibits piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, birefringence of 0.009, and generally singly or doubly refractive depending on the viewing angle, without significant pleochroism
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Global distribution; notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Himalayan regions
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable and suitable for everyday jewelry wear, resistant to scratching by most common household materials
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and soft brushes; avoid harsh chemicals and sudden thermal shock; can be safely stored with other quartz-family stones
Rarity & Value
Common, widely available, with very low cost for tumbled stones, though large, flawless optical-grade crystals command higher values
Special Characteristics
Displays piezoelectricity (generating electric charge under mechanical stress) and occasional internal fluid or mineral inclusions
Lore & History
Often referred to as the 'Master Healer' in crystal healing traditions, believed to amplify energy and thought, and historically used across ancient civilizations for amulets, spheres, and tools