mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous luster, irregular fracture with no clear cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears to be a rough, fractured quartz fragment.

Identified October 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

White to translucent, vitreous luster, irregular fracture with no clear cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears to be a rough, fractured quartz fragment.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins and cavities, or during cooling of silica-rich melts. Quartz occurs in rocks of many ages and geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used for mineral collecting, ornaments, countertops, and as a source of silica for glass and other industrial materials.

Geological facts

Quartz is among Earth’s most abundant minerals; its hardness lets it scratch ordinary glass.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and lack of cleavage. Common worldwide, especially in veins and pegmatites; the photo alone cannot confirm purity or exact variety.