mineral

Milky quartz with iron staining

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz with iron-oxide inclusions or surface staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent gray with rusty pink-brown patches and a vitreous-to-pearly luster; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no true cleavage, and uneven to conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears massive and irregular, with some reflective crystal faces.

Identified October 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly forms as late-stage silica in veins and pegmatites or in fractures of other rocks; iron oxides can stain it during later weathering. Quartz spans much of geological history, so this specimen’s age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and decorative stone; attractive pieces may be collected or used in lapidary work.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and resists weathering, often accumulating in soils and sediments.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and irregular fracture; common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and pegmatites. The image does not establish a precise locality or confirm whether the pink-brown areas are iron staining.