Rock Identifier
Milky quartz cluster (Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely druzy or microcrystalline quartz) — mineral
mineral

Milky quartz cluster

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely druzy or microcrystalline quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The granular sparkling surface suggests many tiny quartz crystals; exact identification is limited by the photograph.

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Physical properties

White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The granular sparkling surface suggests many tiny quartz crystals; exact identification is limited by the photograph.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids fill cavities or fractures in igneous and metamorphic rocks, commonly during the Precambrian to Cenozoic. The specimen appears natural, though it may have been broken from a larger vein or cavity lining.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and lapidary material, mineral specimen, and source of silica for glass, ceramics, abrasives, and engineered stone; this rough piece is not typically jewelry-grade.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly forms colorless, smoky, rose, or amethyst varieties; its white appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or intergrown crystals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy sparkle, hardness (scratches ordinary glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and worldwide quartz veins.