mineral

Milky quartz cluster

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, glassy-to-pearly luster with interlocking crystalline surfaces; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified September 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

White to translucent, glassy-to-pearly luster with interlocking crystalline surfaces; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cooling igneous melts crystallize in veins and cavities. Quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings; the specimen appears naturally crystalline but may be broken from a larger cluster.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive clusters are sold as inexpensive mineral specimens and occasionally used decoratively.

Geological facts

The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining mineral of many quartz veins.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its hardness—scratching ordinary glass—lack of cleavage, and irregular conchoidal fracture; avoid confusing it with calcite, which is softer and effervesces in acid. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.