mineral
Likely milky quartz crystal fragment
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, glassy-to-pearly luster, with irregular fracture and no obvious cleavage; hardness 7 Mohs, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The photo is not detailed enough to confirm the identification.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, glassy-to-pearly luster, with irregular fracture and no obvious cleavage; hardness 7 Mohs, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The photo is not detailed enough to confirm the identification.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities, or occurs in igneous and metamorphic rocks; it forms across many geological ages and settings.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, abrasives, electronics, and jewelry; attractive crystals are collected or used as decorative stones.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and commonly occurs as well-formed hexagonal crystals, though this specimen appears broken.
Field identification & locations
A scratch test against glass can help distinguish quartz from softer lookalikes; check for glassy luster and absence of cleavage. Common worldwide, especially in veins and pegmatites.
