mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: cloudy white to translucent gray with iron staining (orange/brown), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), SG: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: cloudy white to translucent gray with iron staining (orange/brown), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), SG: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stone or semi-precious gemstones.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Specimens like this one often contain inclusions of other minerals, possibly tourmaline or mica as seen in the dark spot.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Extremely common in riverbeds and mountainous terrain globally.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral