Rock Identifier
Likely quartz-rich rock (milky quartz or quartzite) (Quartz-rich metamorphic rock, likely quartzite; predominantly silicon dioxide (SiO₂)) — metamorphic
metamorphic

Likely quartz-rich rock (milky quartz or quartzite)

Quartz-rich metamorphic rock, likely quartzite; predominantly silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale gray-white, rough and massive with a glassy-to-dull sparkle. Quartz is Mohs 7, hexagonal in crystal structure, and lacks cleavage; the image alone cannot confirm whether this is quartzite or a quartz mass.

Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties

Pale gray-white, rough and massive with a glassy-to-dull sparkle. Quartz is Mohs 7, hexagonal in crystal structure, and lacks cleavage; the image alone cannot confirm whether this is quartzite or a quartz mass.

Formation & geological history

Quartzite forms when sandstone is recrystallized by heat and pressure; massive quartz can also precipitate from silica-rich fluids. No age or formation setting can be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Quartzite is used as building and road stone, while attractive quartz specimens are collected and sometimes used decoratively.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and commonly occurs in many rock types.

Field identification & locations

Look for a hard, quartz-rich texture that scratches glass and does not show obvious cleavage; a fresh broken surface can help distinguish interlocking quartzite grains from massive quartz. Both occur worldwide.