mineral

Milky quartz with iron-oxide staining

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly massive vein quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mostly white to translucent, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and rusty orange-brown staining; hardness 7 Mohs, trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage, breaking with uneven to conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears massive rather than showing distinct crystal points.

Identified October 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when silica-rich fluids filled fractures and crystallized as a quartz vein; iron oxides later stained parts of the surface. Quartz veins form in many geological settings and can range from ancient to geologically recent.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected or sometimes cut and polished.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and resists weathering, so it commonly persists in soils and stream sediments.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and a pale streak; rusty patches indicate iron staining. Quartz veins occur worldwide, including in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary terrains.