mineral
Milky quartz
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white to translucent, with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; hardness 7 on the Mohs scale, trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The specimen appears to be a rough, rounded piece of massive quartz.
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 luster and irregular fracture; hardness 7 on the Mohs scale, trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The specimen appears to be a rough, rounded piece of massive quartz.
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
Used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and decorative stone; attractive pieces are collected or fashioned into ornaments.
Geological facts
Quartz is among Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric, producing an electrical charge under pressure.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy appearance, hardness (it can scratch ordinary glass), and lack of cleavage. It is widespread in veins and many rock types worldwide.
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