mineral

Milky quartz pebbles

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless to white or gray, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous to waxy luster; hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure. The specimens appear rough and naturally weathered, with possible iron-oxide staining on the right piece.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or crystallized in igneous and metamorphic rocks; these rounded pieces were likely released by erosion and transported in sediment. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian rocks to modern stream deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, engineered stone, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are used for inexpensive mineral collections and lapidary work.

Geological facts

Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically durable minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common in stream gravels, veins, granites, and metamorphic terrains.