Rock Identifier
Milky Quartz/Clear Quartz Cluster (Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Milky Quartz/Clear Quartz Cluster

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to transparent/colorless; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness
7 (Mohs scale)
Color
White to transparent/colorless
Luster
Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to transparent/colorless; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent in igneous rocks like granite. This specimen likely grew in a cavity where silica-rich fluids cooled and crystallized over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (as a piezoelectric material), glass making, sandpaper (abrasives), and as decorative ornaments or healing crystals in the metaphysical community.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'quarz', which originally meant 'hard'. Clear quartz is often called 'Rock Crystal'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass) and lack of cleavage (it breaks in smooth curves like glass). Found globally, with significant deposits in Brazil, Arkansas (USA), and the Alps.