mineral

Milky quartz vein fragment

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, irregular fracture, and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The tan coating may be iron-oxide staining or weathered host rock.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky quartz vein fragment in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely quartz precipitated from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in a fracture, later exposed by weathering; the specimen’s exact geological age cannot be determined from the image. Common host rocks include granite, schist, and other fractured metamorphic or igneous rocks.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively, though this fragment is not typically jewelry grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and forms in the trigonal crystal system. Milky appearance results mainly from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy white appearance, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and lack of cleavage; avoid confusing it with calcite, which is softer and reacts with dilute acid. Quartz veins are widespread worldwide, especially in mountain belts and granitic terrains.