mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-greasy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no true cleavage. The specimen appears massive and opaque from abundant microscopic inclusions or fractures, with possible gray mineral staining.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or groundwater crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous rocks; quartz is mostly Precambrian to recent and occurs in rocks of nearly every geological age.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are collected or cut as decorative material, though this specimen appears low-grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is resistant to weathering, so it commonly accumulates in sediments and stream gravels.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; unlike calcite, it does not fizz in dilute acid. Common worldwide, especially Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and alpine or hydrothermal vein districts.