Quartz Family · common
Clear Quartz
Clear quartz, also known as rock crystal, is the purest form of quartz. It's been used for jewelry, carvings, and spiritual purposes throughout history.
Also known as: rock crystal, master healer, silicon dioxide.
Clear Quartz properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Colorless, White |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms from silicon-rich fluids in igneous and metamorphic rocks, crystallizing as temperature drops.
Used for crystal balls and decorative objects since ancient times across many cultures.
How to identify Clear Quartz
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Clear Quartz examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Clear Quartz identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Clear Quartz vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Clear Quartz.
Where Clear Quartz is found
Clear Quartz is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Clear Quartz worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $25 |
| Premium specimen | $200+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Electronics
- Optics
- Spiritual practices
Interesting facts
- Ancient Greeks thought it was permanently frozen ice
- Used in watches and electronics for its piezoelectric properties
- Called the 'Master Healer' in crystal healing
Care & safety
Treat Clear Quartz as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Clear Quartz FAQ
What is Clear Quartz?
Clear quartz, also known as rock crystal, is the purest form of quartz. It's been used for jewelry, carvings, and spiritual purposes throughout history.
How much is Clear Quartz worth?
Entry-level Clear Quartz specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $25, and premium pieces for $200 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Clear Quartz?
Clear Quartz has a Mohs hardness of 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Where is Clear Quartz found?
Notable sources of Clear Quartz include Brazil, Arkansas, USA, Madagascar, and Alps. Forms from silicon-rich fluids in igneous and metamorphic rocks, crystallizing as temperature drops..
What is Clear Quartz used for?
Clear Quartz is used for jewelry, electronics, optics, and spiritual practices.
