mineral

Milky Quartz with Iron Staining

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to yellowish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to yellowish-orange
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to yellowish-orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed from hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma in igneous veins. The yellow color is caused by secondary iron oxide staining (limonite or goethite) from weathering. Common in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Sacramento.

Uses & applications

Used in construction aggregates, glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stone. Minor interest for lapidary collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. This specimen's color is likely a surface coating or infusion into micro-fractures rather than a true citrine variety.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), lack of cleavage, and waxy luster. Common in riverbeds and gold-bearing quartz veins in California.