mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous luster, irregular fracture, and no prominent cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen appears to be a rough, sugary-to-glassy quartz fragment, possibly with minor iron staining or inclusions.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings and has no single diagnostic age.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, engineered stone, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected, though this fragment is unlikely to be gem quality.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering. Its hardness allows it to scratch ordinary window glass and steel, while steel should not scratch it easily.

Field identification & locations

Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins, granite pegmatites, and sedimentary gravels. Confirm with a glass-scratch test, absence of cleavage, and lack of reaction to dilute acid; avoid damaging valuable specimens.