Comparison · Minerals vs Quartz Family
Goshenite vs Clear Quartz
Goshenite and Clear Quartz are easy to confuse. Both sit near Mohs 7.5–8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Goshenite and Clear Quartz
- Both sit near Mohs 7.5–8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Goshenite is Transparent, Clear Quartz is transparent.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Goshenite is Hexagonal, Clear Quartz is hexagonal.
Goshenite vs Clear Quartz properties
| Property | Goshenite | Clear Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5–8 | 7 |
| Luster | Vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.65–2.8 | 2.65 |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, White | Colorless, White |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $5–$200+ |
Which is more valuable?
Clear Quartz is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Goshenite, and premium Clear Quartz can reach $200 or more.
About Goshenite
Goshenite is the colorless variety of beryl, Be3Al2Si6O18, lacking the trace-element impurities that give other beryl varieties their color. It crystallizes in the hexagonal system as clear, glassy prisms and takes its name from Goshen, Massachusetts, where it was first described. Historically valued for optical use before high-quality glass was widely available, it is today the least sought-after beryl variety among gem buyers.
About 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.
Goshenite vs Clear Quartz FAQ
Is Goshenite the same as Clear Quartz?
No. Goshenite is a mineral while Clear Quartz is a quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7.5–8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Goshenite from Clear Quartz?
Both sit near Mohs 7.5–8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Hold a thin edge to the light: Goshenite is Transparent, Clear Quartz is transparent. Well-formed crystals give it away: Goshenite is Hexagonal, Clear Quartz is hexagonal.
Which is harder, Goshenite or Clear Quartz?
Goshenite is harder: Mohs 7.5–8 against Mohs 7 for Clear Quartz.
Which is more valuable, Goshenite or Clear Quartz?
Clear Quartz is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Goshenite, and premium Clear Quartz can reach $200 or more.
