mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7; white to cream with a vitreous-to-greasy luster and white streak. Trigonal crystal structure, typically without cleavage; fracture is uneven to conchoidal. The specimen appears opaque and rough, with possible iron staining.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7; white to cream with a vitreous-to-greasy luster and white streak. Trigonal crystal structure, typically without cleavage; fracture is uneven to conchoidal. The specimen appears opaque and rough, with possible iron staining.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins and fractures, or crystallizes from magma. Quartz occurs in rocks of many geological ages and settings.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and ornamental objects; attractive pieces are collected or used in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy appearance, hardness (it can scratch ordinary glass), and lack of cleavage. Common worldwide in quartz veins, pegmatites, and many igneous and metamorphic rocks.
More like this
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