mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7; white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and trigonal crystal structure. Quartz has no cleavage and breaks with a conchoidal or irregular fracture; the specimen appears massive and unpolished.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7; white to translucent with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and trigonal crystal structure. Quartz has no cleavage and breaks with a conchoidal or irregular fracture; the specimen appears massive and unpolished.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins and cavities, and also occurs in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Quartz is found in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used as a silica source in glassmaking and other industries; attractive pieces are collected or cut for decorative objects and jewelry.
Geological facts
Its cloudy appearance comes from tiny fluid or gas inclusions and internal fractures that scatter light.
Field identification & locations
Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and granitic or metamorphic terrains. It can scratch glass and is harder than steel; its lack of cleavage helps distinguish it from many white minerals.
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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
Unidentified pink-and-gray mineral or rock specimen
Undetermined; the image is too blurry for reliable identification
mineral