mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless to cloudy white, with a vitreous luster and translucent appearance; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. It crystallizes in the trigonal system, though this specimen appears irregular or fractured rather than as a well-formed crystal.

Identified August 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in fractures and cavities of igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary rocks; its geological age may range from recent deposits to ancient Precambrian material.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are sold as cabinet specimens, but this example has modest jewelry value.

Geological facts

The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or trapped mineral impurities. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and durable minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The image alone cannot exclude a related pale mineral such as calcite.