mineral

Milky quartz cluster

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, commonly massive or crystalline with hexagonal structure. It has poor cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, commonly massive or crystalline with hexagonal structure. It has poor cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cool in fractures and cavities, or during igneous and metamorphic processes. Quartz is widespread and ranges from Precambrian to recent in age; this specimen appears naturally clustered and unpolished.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, engineered stone, and aggregate; attractive crystal clusters are sold as décor and low-cost mineral specimens.

Geological facts

The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral 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 glassy appearance, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and alpine or hydrothermal veins worldwide.