mineral
Milky quartz with iron staining
Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive vein quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; translucent to cloudy white/gray with rusty-brown iron-oxide staining, vitreous to dull luster, and no cleavage. Quartz has a trigonal crystal structure; this specimen is massive and irregularly fractured.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent to cloudy white/gray with rusty-brown iron-oxide staining, vitreous to dull luster, and no cleavage. Quartz has a trigonal crystal structure; this specimen is massive and irregularly fractured.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids fill fractures and crystallize, commonly during hydrothermal activity; the image alone cannot establish its geological age or exact origin.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected; quartz is used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics, and decorative stone, though this rough piece appears suitable mainly for a collection or craft use.
Geological facts
Iron oxides coating or staining quartz can create brown, red, or yellow patches without changing the quartz itself.
Field identification & locations
Likely quartz based on its cloudy translucence, glassy fracture surfaces, and lack of visible cleavage; a scratch test against glass can help confirm hardness. Quartz veins occur worldwide.
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