mineral

Milky quartz vein in a host rock

Quartz (SiO₂), likely vein quartz; the gray host rock cannot be identified confidently from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen shows a pale, cloudy, translucent-to-opaque vein with a glassy to dull luster and irregular fracture; quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and a trigonal crystal structure, with no cleavage. The host appears gray and granular.

Identified October 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz likely precipitated from silica-rich fluids in fractures within the older host rock; its precise age and host-rock type are not determinable from the photo.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces may be kept as inexpensive mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Milky appearance comes from tiny fluid or gas inclusions and microscopic fractures that scatter light.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, no cleavage, and a pale vein cutting or contrasting with darker rock. Quartz veins occur in many rock types worldwide.