mineral

Milky quartz (quartz-rich rock fragment)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, glassy-to-greasy luster, irregular fracture with no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen appears massive and granular, with possible iron-oxide staining or host-rock residue.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich fluids crystallized in fractures, or as quartz veins within older metamorphic and igneous rocks. Quartz is geologically widespread and may range from Precambrian to recent vein formation.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, engineered stone, electronics, and abrasives; attractive pieces are collected but this rough fragment has modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Milky color results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities that scatter light. It may be confused with calcite, but quartz is much harder and does not effervesce in dilute hydrochloric acid.

Field identification & locations

The image is consistent with common vein quartz, plausible near 33.6°N, 73.0°E, where quartz-bearing Himalayan foothill and Lesser Himalayan rocks occur. Test by scratching glass (quartz should scratch it); avoid confusing surface weathering with crystal form.