mineral

Milky quartz (likely tumbled or polished)

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, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape and smooth surface indicate human polishing or tumbling.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; its geological age varies widely. The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions or structural defects.

Uses & applications

Common as an inexpensive ornamental stone, carving material, paperweight, and metaphysical/collecting specimen; occasionally used as a quartz source in glass and ceramics.

Geological facts

Quartz is among Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure. This piece could also be white chalcedony or calcite, but quartz is the most likely identification from the image.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; calcite would be softer and react with dilute acid. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and quartz-rich veins.