mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears massive and weathered, with minor brown 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 and cavities, commonly in hydrothermal veins and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz is geologically widespread and may form from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively. This small rough specimen likely has minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

Milky color results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is a major component of granite, sandstone, and many metamorphic rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness, lack of cleavage, glassy fracture, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, pegmatites, and river gravels.