mineral

Milky quartz with iron-oxide staining

Quartz (SiO₂), likely with goethite/limonite coatings

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, glassy-to-waxy luster; hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The brown-gold surface is probably iron-oxide/hydroxide staining, with possible minor host-rock inclusions.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz formed when silica-rich fluids crystallized in a vein or cavity, commonly in igneous or metamorphic rocks; the specimen’s exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. Later weathering produced the rusty coating.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive display or lapidary specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant, often surviving after surrounding rock weathers away.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its white translucency, hardness (it should scratch ordinary glass), lack of cleavage, and irregular conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and granite- or metamorphic-rock terrains.