mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive or drusy quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure. The specimen appears irregular and granular, possibly coated with iron-oxide staining or attached matrix.

Identified August 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in fractures, veins, cavities, or pegmatites; individual pieces may range from ancient Precambrian to much younger hydrothermal deposits. Exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive mineral specimens or lapidary material.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically identical to amethyst, citrine, and rock crystal, with color determined mainly by impurities or defects.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and white translucency. Common worldwide in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.