mineral

Milky quartz (rough quartz specimen)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually hardness 7 Mohs, white to translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no true cleavage; it has hexagonal crystal structure and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears massive and fractured, with possible minor iron staining or green inclusions.

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids fill fractures and cavities, or crystallizes in pegmatites and veins. Quartz is common from Precambrian through recent geological settings, so age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, foundry sand, electronics, and abrasives; attractive clear or included pieces are collected, while translucent material may be cut or polished. This rough piece is likely primarily a low-value collector specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering. Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or dispersed mineral impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, hardness, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, pegmatites, and hydrothermal deposits.