mineral
Likely milky quartz
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster, uneven fracture, and no cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape suggests a naturally worn or tumbled fragment.
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Physical properties
Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster, uneven fracture, and no cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape suggests a naturally worn or tumbled fragment.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings. The exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive translucent pieces are sold as inexpensive specimens or craft stones.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and durable minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel nail should not scratch it. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, and metamorphic terrains.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous