mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to cream, opaque, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, specific gravity about 2.65. The tan staining is likely iron oxides or surface dirt.
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Physical properties
White to cream, opaque, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and irregular fracture; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, specific gravity about 2.65. The tan staining is likely iron oxides or surface dirt.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and pegmatites, and also forms in many rock types. Its age cannot be determined from the image; quartz deposits range from ancient to geologically recent.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a decorative and collecting specimen; quartz is also important in glassmaking, abrasives, and electronics. This rough piece has little gemstone value.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is notably resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it can scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and typically irregular fracture. Found worldwide in veins, pegmatites, and sedimentary deposits; estimated value: about $1–$10 for a small common specimen.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral