mineral
Likely milky quartz fragment
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectThe specimen appears pale, opaque, and roughly broken; its surface and lighting make luster and crystal form unclear. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, vitreous luster, and no cleavage.
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Physical properties
The specimen appears pale, opaque, and roughly broken; its surface and lighting make luster and crystal form unclear. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, vitreous luster, and no cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly forms as veins in igneous and metamorphic rocks or crystallizes from silica-rich fluids; its age depends on its host geology.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, construction aggregate, and decorative objects; attractive pieces may be collected or polished.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and commonly occurs as milky, translucent masses.
Field identification & locations
A hardness test (scratching glass) and lack of cleavage can help identify quartz, but this image alone is insufficient for confident identification. Quartz occurs worldwide in veins, pegmatites, and many rock types.
