mineral

Milky quartz (likely quartz vein fragment)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous luster with irregular fracture and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen appears rough and naturally fractured, though the image is not sufficient for certainty.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in fractures and veins, or from cooling igneous melts; individual pieces may range from Precambrian to recent geological age. Common localities include Brazil, the United States, Madagascar, and worldwide quartz-bearing terrains.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, ceramics, and engineered stone; attractive transparent pieces are used as gemstones and inexpensive decorative specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, making it common in river gravel and sedimentary deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy appearance, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and white translucent color; a steel knife should not scratch it. Common rough specimens typically sell for $2-$15, while unusually clear or well-formed pieces may bring $20-$100+.