mineral
Milky quartz (rough quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque white to pale gray with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture; quartz has a hexagonal crystal structure, Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The photo does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so identification is based on appearance.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Milky quartz (rough quartz) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Opaque white to pale gray with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture; quartz has a hexagonal crystal structure, Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The photo does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so identification is based on appearance.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed as quartz in a vein or pegmatite from silica-rich fluids cooling in cracks in host rock; quartz occurs from ancient to recent geological settings. Its exact age and origin cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected or occasionally used in crafts and jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under mechanical stress.
Field identification & locations
Check for hardness: quartz can scratch ordinary glass and should not be scratched by a steel knife. Common worldwide in veins, igneous rocks, and metamorphic rocks; confirmatory testing may be needed to distinguish it from other white minerals.
