mineral

Milky quartz in a granitic rock

Quartz (SiO₂), hosted in likely granite or granitic gneiss

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The pale, translucent, irregular lump appears to be massive quartz; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a vitreous-to-greasy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The surrounding coarse, pink-brown rock appears rich in feldspar and quartz, with darker minerals.

Identified October 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms as magma cools or crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in cracks and cavities; the host rock likely formed through slow cooling or metamorphism. The image does not establish its precise age or locality.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, electronics, and decorative objects; attractive specimens may be collected, though this example appears modest.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and breaks with a characteristic curved, conchoidal fracture rather than cleavage.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and a pale glassy appearance; the photo alone cannot confirm the host rock or exact quartz variety. Quartz and granitic rocks occur worldwide.