mineral

Milky quartz rough chips

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically hardness 7 Mohs, white to translucent gray, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and hexagonal crystal structure; lacks prominent cleavage and commonly shows conchoidal fracture. The pieces appear naturally fractured or tumbled, with cloudy inclusions and uneven surfaces.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; milky cloudiness usually results from microscopic fluid inclusions. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian rocks to modern hydrothermal deposits.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are sold as craft, lapidary, or mineral specimens. These small rough pieces generally have modest decorative value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure. The image does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so identification is visual and should be confirmed by hardness testing.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, translucency, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch it with a steel nail; quartz should scratch ordinary glass. Common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and quartz veins worldwide.