metamorphic
Milky quartz-bearing rock, possibly quartzite
Quartz (SiO₂), likely in a quartzite or quartz-rich vein
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to cream, translucent granular mass with a glassy to sugary luster and irregular fracture; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, with no cleavage and specific gravity about 2.65. The image does not clearly resolve grain boundaries, so exact classification is uncertain.
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Physical properties
White to cream, translucent granular mass with a glassy to sugary luster and irregular fracture; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, with no cleavage and specific gravity about 2.65. The image does not clearly resolve grain boundaries, so exact classification is uncertain.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or metamorphism of quartz sandstone; quartz crystallization commonly occurred during older Precambrian to younger tectonic events, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces may be polished or collected. It has limited jewelry value unless transparent, well-crystallized, or unusually colored.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is a major component of many igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its pale color, vitreous sparkle, hardness, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel nail (though it should scratch glass). A streak test should be white; acid reaction is absent. Common worldwide in veins, quartzites, and granitic terrains.
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