mineral
Milky quartz with iron staining
Quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-oxide-stained vein quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, with rusty tan-brown patches and a vitreous-to-dull luster; quartz is Mohs 7, has a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and uneven fracture. The small, rough piece appears massive rather than well-crystallized.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, with rusty tan-brown patches and a vitreous-to-dull luster; quartz is Mohs 7, has a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and uneven fracture. The small, rough piece appears massive rather than well-crystallized.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed as silica-rich fluid filled a crack and crystallized in a vein; iron-bearing minerals later stained parts of it. Quartz veins form in many geological ages and settings.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, electronics, and construction; attractive pieces may be kept as inexpensive specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals. Its lack of cleavage and hardness help distinguish it from softer, cleavable white minerals.
Field identification & locations
Look for hardness near 7 (it can scratch ordinary glass), glassy fracture, and no cleavage; milky quartz occurs widely in veins and pegmatites worldwide. The exact identification is visual and tentative.
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Epidote
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Granite
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