mineral
Milky quartz (likely rose quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically Mohs hardness 7, vitreous to waxy luster, translucent white to pale pink, and conchoidal fracture without cleavage; the specimen appears rough and partly translucent. Crystal structure is trigonal, though massive pieces may show no visible crystal faces.
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Physical properties
Typically Mohs hardness 7, vitreous to waxy luster, translucent white to pale pink, and conchoidal fracture without cleavage; the specimen appears rough and partly translucent. Crystal structure is trigonal, though massive pieces may show no visible crystal faces.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in igneous and metamorphic veins, pegmatites, or cavities; rose coloration commonly comes from trace inclusions or irradiation. Its exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used as a lapidary and decorative stone, in carvings and jewelry, and industrially as a source of silica; this rough piece has modest specimen value.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. The image cannot reliably distinguish milky quartz from pale rose quartz or another translucent silica-rich material.
Field identification & locations
Check for hardness sufficient to scratch window glass, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; avoid testing valuable pieces destructively. Common worldwide, especially in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.