Also called: Rock crystalClear Quartz
About
Clear quartz, also known as rock crystal, is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. It is a variety of quartz that is colourless and transparent. Clear quartz has been used for centuries in both practical and spiritual applications, from the lenses in ancient magnifying glasses to being considered a powerful stone in crystal healing.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Clear quartz is not a traditional birthstone, but it is associated with the zodiac signs Aries and Leo.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of clear quartz is amplification and clarity. Clear quartz is versatile and powerful, amplifying the energy of other stones and your intentions. It resonates with all chakras, especially the crown chakra, promoting clarity of thought, focus, and spiritual growth. Clear quartz can be programmed with any intention, making it a highly adaptable and useful crystal for manifesting desires, enhancing meditation, and clearing stagnant energies.
Facts
Abundant mineral: Clear quartz is one of the most common minerals found on Earth and is part of the larger quartz family, which includes amethyst, citrine, and smoky quartz.
Historical significance: The ancient Greeks believed clear quartz was eternal ice, permanently frozen by the gods.
Piezoelectric properties: Clear quartz is used in modern technology due to its piezoelectric effect, where it generates an electric charge under pressure.
Found worldwide: Major deposits of clear quartz are found in Brazil, Madagascar, Switzerland, and the United States.
Science
Mineral: Quartz
Crystal System: Trigonal
Chemistry: SiO₂
Colour: Colourless
Refractive Index: 1.544 to 1.553
Birefringence: 0.009
Specific Gravity: 2.65
Mohs Hardness: 7
TreatmentsAmethyst is sometimes heat-treated to enhance its colour or to produce citrine. Lower-quality amethyst may also undergo irradiation to improve colour saturation.
SyntheticsSynthetic amethyst exists and is often created using hydrothermal processes, which replicate the natural growth conditions of quartz. Synthetic versions can be difficult to distinguish from natural amethyst without advanced testing.
ImitationsClear quartz can be imitated by glass, often in costume jewellery, but these imitations lack the durability and brilliance of natural quartz.
similar materialsGlass: Transparent glass can look like clear quartz but is softer and lacks the crystalline structure.
Clear calcite: Though also transparent, calcite is softer and often exhibits strong birefringence, setting it apart from clear quartz.
Topaz: A colourless variety of topaz can resemble clear quartz, but topaz is harder and more valuable.
Why We love Clear Quartz
ClarityClear quartz can display pristine transparency and brilliance, making it a versatile gemstone.
Piezoelectric PropertiesClear quartz can generate an electric charge under pressure. This makes it valuable in modern technology.
Endless Visual VarietyFrom flawlessly clear crystals to interesting inclusions and external habits, clear quartz keep it interesting.
Other Varieties of Crystalline Quartz
