mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears to be a small rough fragment; specific gravity is about 2.65.
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
Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 7, hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears to be a small rough fragment; specific gravity is about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins and cavities, or during igneous and metamorphic processes. Quartz occurs in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as a silica source for glass and industrial materials; attractive pieces are collected or used in inexpensive jewelry and decor.
Geological facts
Its cloudy appearance is caused by microscopic fluid or gas inclusions and structural imperfections.
Field identification & locations
Common worldwide, including in quartz veins, pegmatites, and many host rocks. Hardness, glassy luster, and lack of cleavage help distinguish it from softer white minerals; value is generally about $1–$10 for a small common fragment.
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
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous