mineral
Milky quartz vein fragment
Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive or vein quartz with minor iron-oxide/clay inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent gray, vitreous to waxy luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, hexagonal crystal structure. The irregular elongated piece appears naturally fractured rather than polished.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent gray, vitreous to waxy luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, hexagonal crystal structure. The irregular elongated piece appears naturally fractured rather than polished.
Formation & geological history
Likely precipitated from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filling a fracture in older host rock; quartz veins range from Precambrian to recent geologic ages. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Used for silica, glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and ornamental specimens; this rough fragment has modest decorative or educational value.
Geological facts
Quartz is among Earth’s most abundant minerals and is a major component of granite, sandstone, and many metamorphic rocks. Translucent zones can resemble low-grade chalcedony but are typically coarser and more crystalline.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary steel or glass. Common worldwide in hydrothermal veins, cavities, granites, and metamorphic terrains.
