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 hexagonal crystal structure; the specimen appears massive and rounded rather than crystallized.
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Physical properties
Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster, hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure; the specimen appears massive and rounded rather than crystallized.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz is common from Precambrian rocks through modern geological settings, but the specimen’s age cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are collected, though this rough specimen has little gem value.
Geological facts
Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities. Quartz can scratch ordinary steel and glass, helping distinguish it from softer white minerals.
Field identification & locations
Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic terrains. Confirm with a scratch test and lack of cleavage; calcite, a common look-alike, is much softer and reacts with dilute acid.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary