mineral

Milky quartz (quartz-rich rock)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); likely massive quartz with minor iron-stained impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, irregular fracture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The yellow-brown areas likely reflect iron-oxide staining or inclusions.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids fill fractures or when quartz crystallizes in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Quartz is common from Precambrian through modern geological settings; the specimen’s exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used for silica, glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and construction aggregate. Attractive translucent pieces are collected or used decoratively, though this specimen appears ordinary rather than gem grade.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy translucence, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and white coloration; a steel knife should not scratch it. Common worldwide in veins, granites, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.