mineral

Quartz (Milky Quartz / Quartzite)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white to milky; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Translucent white to milky
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified April 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white to milky; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This massive, grainy variety can also form as quartzite through the metamorphism of sandstone.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as a popular semi-precious stone for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to both chemical and physical weathering, which is why it often remains as pebbles long after other minerals have eroded away.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage, and its characteristic waxy or glassy luster. It is found globally across all geological environments.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

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Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral