mineral

Milky quartz (likely iron-stained quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure. The cream-brown surface staining is likely iron oxides or weathering; exact identification is uncertain from the image alone.

Identified September 1, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky quartz (likely iron-stained quartz) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz occurs from Precambrian rocks to modern hydrothermal deposits and is widespread geologically.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively rather than as jewelry-grade gemstones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under mechanical pressure.

Field identification & locations

Check whether it scratches ordinary glass but not steel, has no cleavage, and shows curved fracture surfaces; common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and worldwide quartz veins. The specimen may also be a quartz-rich fragment such as chalcedony, which would require testing.