mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, commonly massive or hexagonal crystalline, with no true cleavage and uneven conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears to be a small rough, partly translucent quartz fragment.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and pegmatites, or during igneous and metamorphic processes. Quartz is geologically widespread from Precambrian rocks to modern hydrothermal deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, countertops, and silicon production; attractive crystals are collected but this small fragment has minimal jewelry value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; common worldwide in granite, quartz veins, geodes, and river gravels.