mineral

Milky quartz vein fragment

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), commonly with minor iron-oxide staining and possibly feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, massive granular texture with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, uneven to conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The irregular shape and sugary crystalline surface are typical of vein quartz.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled a fracture and crystallized, probably in Paleozoic–Mesozoic mountain rocks of central Afghanistan; its exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics. Attractive pieces may be sold as low-cost mineral specimens, though this example appears mainly of educational or collecting interest.

Geological facts

Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, and defects that scatter light. It may contain small amounts of feldspar or calcite, which require testing to distinguish.

Field identification & locations

Likely and regionally plausible near 35.1°N, 68.8°E, where quartz-bearing veins and metamorphic/igneous rocks occur. Confirm with a steel-file or glass-scratch test (quartz scratches glass), and test suspected carbonate patches with dilute hydrochloric acid; avoid confusing it with white calcite, which is softer and cleaves readily.