mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster, hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a hexagonal crystal structure; specific gravity is about 2.65. The specimen appears massive and rough, with inclusions or surface weathering.
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Physical properties
Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster, hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and a hexagonal crystal structure; specific gravity is about 2.65. The specimen appears massive and rough, with inclusions or surface weathering.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cooling igneous melts deposit quartz in veins and cavities. Quartz is common from Precambrian rocks through modern geological settings.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, countertops, and mineral collecting; attractive transparent pieces may be cut as gemstones.
Geological facts
Milky color results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or defects that scatter light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel nail will not scratch it. Common worldwide in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.
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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
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
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary