mineral

Milky quartz pebble

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded, translucent cream-white specimen with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, specific gravity about 2.65, and it has a hexagonal crystal structure. The tan areas may reflect iron staining or surface weathering.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely a naturally weathered quartz fragment or vein quartz, formed when silica-rich fluids deposited quartz in fractures of older rocks. 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, engineered stone, abrasives, electronics, and watches; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive mineral specimens or cabochon material.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly shows conchoidal fracture rather than cleavage and can scratch ordinary window glass. Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or both.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its hardness, glass-like fracture, white translucency, and resistance to scratching by a steel blade; it is not diagnostic without testing. Common worldwide, especially in river gravels and hydrothermal veins.