mineral

Milky quartz (likely quartz-rich vein fragment)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears massive and fractured, with rusty iron-oxide staining and possible minor feldspar or host rock.

Identified September 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures in older rock, later weathering and breaking at the surface. Quartz veins occur in rocks of many ages, so the exact geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive translucent pieces are collected or used decoratively. This rough fragment has modest ornamental value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining component of many veins and sandstones. Its lack of cleavage and glassy fracture help distinguish it from calcite and feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Test with a steel file or knife: quartz should resist scratching, while calcite fizzes in dilute acid and is much softer. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.