mineral
Milky Quartz Pebble
Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on the Mohs scale, milky white to opaque white with minor iron-oxide or dark mineral inclusions, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on the Mohs scale, milky white to opaque white with minor iron-oxide or dark mineral inclusions, vitreous to greasy luster, hexagonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the slow cooling of silica-rich fluids. This specimen is stream-worn or beach-tumbled into a smooth pebble shape.
Uses & applications
Used widely as landscaping stone, raw material for silicon extraction, glassmaking, electronics, and as decorative tumbling stones or specimens for beginner rock collectors.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy white appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped inside the crystal structure during its formation millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Can be easily identified by its hardness (it can scratch glass), lack of cleavage, smooth rounded surface from weathering, and opaque white color with subtle iron staining.
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