mineral
Likely quartz pebble or quartz fragment
Quartz, SiO₂ (identification from the photo is tentative)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall, translucent white-to-honey-colored piece with a glassy/waxy surface and irregular fracture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Small, translucent white-to-honey-colored piece with a glassy/waxy surface and irregular fracture. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and in hydrothermal veins; its geological age cannot be determined from this image.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and as a gemstone or specimen; this small fragment has little commercial value.
Geological facts
The photo does not show enough diagnostic detail to distinguish quartz confidently from other pale translucent minerals, such as calcite or feldspar.
Field identification & locations
Check whether it scratches glass and resists a steel knife: quartz usually scratches glass and is not readily scratched by steel. Quartz is widespread, including in Minas Gerais, Brazil, so the reported location is plausible; a field test or closer view is needed for a firmer ID.
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