Abstract: Nanoclays suitable for use in preparing nylon-based high gas barrier resins. Nanoclays contain a low level of quartz impurities. Reducing quartz impurities improves micro-voiding when resins are stretched during extrusion and blow molding operations typical of film and rigid container manufacturing. Articles incorporating this invention exhibit superior gas barrier and reduced haze. This patent also claims a process for producing low quartz-containing nanoclays.