mineral
Milky quartz cluster
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely anhedral to drusy quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster with irregular crystalline surfaces; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The dark patches may be iron/manganese staining or matrix inclusions.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster with irregular crystalline surfaces; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The dark patches may be iron/manganese staining or matrix inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures or cavities and crystallized, commonly in igneous or metamorphic host rocks. Quartz deposits range from Precambrian to recent, so age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Used extensively for glass, electronics, engineered stone, abrasives, and construction aggregate; attractive clusters are sold as décor or mineral specimens. This rough specimen has modest collector value.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or both scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically durable minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy luster, hardness, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide, especially Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and quartz veins.
