mineral

Milky quartz (likely weathered quartz vein)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7; white to translucent, vitreous-to-dull luster, massive granular texture, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears heavily weathered and may contain iron-oxide staining or minor feldspar/clay inclusions.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky quartz (likely weathered quartz vein) 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

Likely formed as hydrothermal quartz filling a fracture or vein in older host rock, then exposed and weathered at the surface. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph; quartz veins occur in rocks of nearly all ages.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, foundry materials, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively. This rough specimen has limited jewelry value unless it polishes well.

Geological facts

Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, and structural defects that scatter light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically durable minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy/translucent white appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and quartz-rich rocks.