Rock Identifier
Milky quartz (Quartz (SiO₂)) — mineral
mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 7, and hexagonal crystal structure; the specimen appears irregularly broken rather than showing obvious crystal faces.

Identified More mineral
Explore Milky quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

Physical properties

White to translucent, vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 7, and hexagonal crystal structure; the specimen appears irregularly broken rather than showing obvious crystal faces.

Formation & geological history

Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities within igneous and metamorphic rocks. It forms across many geological ages; the image alone cannot establish this specimen’s age or exact origin.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and decorative objects; attractive pieces may be collected or used in jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and has no cleavage, breaking instead with a curved, conchoidal fracture.

Field identification & locations

A glass-scratching hardness test and lack of cleavage can help distinguish quartz; it occurs worldwide in veins, pegmatites, and many rock types. The photograph shows a pale, opaque specimen, but identification is provisional without testing.