mineral

Milky quartz (possibly quartz-rich vein rock)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to pale gray or pink, with a vitreous to waxy luster; hexagonal crystal structure but this specimen is massive and lacks visible cleavage, showing irregular conchoidal fracture. The greenish areas may reflect chlorite, epidote, or weathering inclusions.

Identified September 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids crystallized in fractures, commonly in granite, metamorphic rocks, or quartz veins; the specimen’s exact geological age cannot be determined from the image. Quartz veins range from Precambrian to modern geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are collected, though this rough specimen is unlikely to be jewelry grade.

Geological facts

Milky quartz becomes opaque from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities. Pink coloration may result from iron-bearing inclusions or nearby feldspar contamination.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, hardness—scratching ordinary glass—and conchoidal fracture; it commonly occurs in quartz veins and gravel derived from granitic or metamorphic terrain. Exact identification would benefit from a fresh surface and hardness test.