mineral

Milky quartz fragment

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.