mineral
Milky quartz fragment
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and irregular fracture; visible grainy texture suggests massive quartz rather than a well-formed crystal. Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and irregular fracture; visible grainy texture suggests massive quartz rather than a well-formed crystal. Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and cooling igneous rocks, or accumulates as durable fragments in sedimentary deposits. Its exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and silicon technology; attractive pieces are collected but this fragment appears low commercial grade.
Geological facts
The cloudy appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities. It is harder than ordinary steel and will scratch window glass.
Field identification & locations
Common around quartz veins, granitic rocks, and many stream gravels, including regions near 11.2°N, 8.0°E. Confirm with a scratch test against glass and inspect for a greasy/vitreous luster; calcite is softer and reacts with dilute acid.
