mineral

Milky Quartz with Iron Staining

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: white to translucent with reddish-brown (iron) staining; Luster: vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: hexagonal/trigonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); SG: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: white to translucent with reddish-brown (iron) staining
Luster: vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified July 10, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky Quartz with Iron Staining in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins from silica-rich fluids and as a primary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks. The iron staining occurs when the specimen is exposed to oxygen and water during weathering.

Uses & applications

Mainly used in glassmaking, abrasives, and as a component in construction concrete; also popular as a beginner specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. 'Milky' quartz gets its white color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and waxy luster. It is ubiquitous in riverbeds, mountains, and gardens worldwide.