mineral

Milky and Ferruginous Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to iron-stained peach/orange; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to iron-stained peach/orange
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms via hydrothermal activity in veins or as a primary constituent in igneous rocks like granite. The peach hue is caused by iron oxide inclusions. Common throughout Earth's crust across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative stone or landscaping material.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which has Slavic origins meaning 'hard'.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its ability to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and waxy to glassy appearance. It is found globally in riverbeds, mountains, and beaches. Collectors should look for the characteristic conchoidal fracture visible on broken surfaces.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral