mineral

Milky quartz gravel/chips

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and irregular conchoidal fractures; hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, trigonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The pieces appear naturally fractured or crushed, with some possible iron-oxide staining.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and igneous rocks, then accumulates as vein material or alluvial gravel. Quartz is widespread and formed throughout Earth’s geological history; the exact locality and age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz chips are used for landscaping, decorative aggregate, glass and silica production, engineered stone, and mineral collecting; these small irregular pieces have little jewelry value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge when mechanically stressed.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy appearance, high hardness, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; glass can be scratched by quartz. Common sources include quartz veins, pegmatites, river gravels, and crushed-rock operations.