mineral
Milky Quartz with Mica and Pyrite
Quartz (SiO2) with Muscovite (KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2) and Pyrite (FeS2)
Hardness: 7 (Quartz), 2-2.5 (Mica); Color: White, silvery grey, and dark flecks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal (Quartz) and Monoclinic (Mica); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Quartz), 2-2
- Color
- White, silvery grey, and dark flecks
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Quartz), 2-2.5 (Mica); Color: White, silvery grey, and dark flecks; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal (Quartz) and Monoclinic (Mica); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where silica-rich fluids cooled and crystallized, often trapping mica flakes and metallic sulfides during the cooling process. Common in tectonic mountain ranges.
Uses & applications
Primarily of interest to mineral collectors or as a decorative specimen. Quartz is used in glassmaking and electronics; mica is used as an insulator.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. When mica is present in high concentrations, the rock is often classified as a mica schist or part of a pegmatite body.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the milky white translucency, the ability of quartz to scratch glass, and the 'glitter' effect from thin, metallic-looking mica flakes. Often found in riverbeds or mountain outcrops in metamorphic terrains.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock