mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectLikely a rough, opaque-to-translucent white quartz fragment with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture. Hardness 7 Mohs; trigonal crystal structure; no cleavage; specific gravity about 2.65. Its yellow-brown surface staining may be iron oxides.
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Physical properties
Likely a rough, opaque-to-translucent white quartz fragment with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture. Hardness 7 Mohs; trigonal crystal structure; no cleavage; specific gravity about 2.65. Its yellow-brown surface staining may be iron oxides.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and pegmatites, or forms as grains in many rock types. It is widespread across geological ages; the image alone cannot establish a specific age or setting.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and decorative objects; attractive pieces may be polished or collected.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and resists weathering, making it common in sand and sediment.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy sheen, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass; a steel knife generally will not scratch it. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and granitic terrains.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous