mineral

Milky quartz-rich rock

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent with peach-brown staining, vitreous to waxy luster, irregular fracture, no cleavage, and crystalline granular texture. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent with peach-brown staining, vitreous to waxy luster, irregular fracture, no cleavage, and crystalline granular texture. Specific gravity is approximately 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as quartz veins or hydrothermal silica filling fractures in older host rock; the brown coloration results from weathered iron oxides. Its precise geological age cannot be determined from the photograph and depends on the host formation.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative landscaping stone, aggregate, silica feedstock, and occasionally as a lapidary material; translucent pieces may be polished, though this specimen appears heavily fractured.

Geological facts

Milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or both scattering light through the quartz. Iron staining can produce attractive cream, gold, orange, and reddish tones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy fracture, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife. Common in quartz veins worldwide, including Arkansas, Brazil, Madagascar, and many granite-rich regions.