mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, massive and unpolished, with a glassy-to-dull luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm identification.

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

White to translucent, massive and unpolished, with a glassy-to-dull luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm identification.

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 for carvings, beads, and decorative specimens; quartz is also important in glassmaking and electronics, though this small rough piece is mainly a collector or craft specimen.

Geological facts

Milky color results from tiny fluid or gas inclusions that scatter light.

Field identification & locations

Quartz is common worldwide and can be scratched by quartz but not readily by a steel knife. Its rounded shape and pale color are consistent with quartz, but a close-up or hardness test would help distinguish it from other white minerals.