mineral

Quartz crystal cluster (likely milky quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Colorless to white, translucent, vitreous luster, and an aggregate of tiny hexagonal crystals; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The granular appearance may also reflect druzy quartz coating a host rock.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Typically forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids precipitate in cavities, veins, or fractures, commonly in igneous and metamorphic rocks. The specimen’s exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive clusters are sold as cabinet specimens and occasionally used in decorative jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and has a trigonal crystal structure. Its crystals commonly develop six-sided prisms ending in pyramidal faces, although this piece is dominated by microcrystals.

Field identification & locations

Identify with glass-scratching hardness, lack of cleavage, and white-to-clear sparkling crystals; avoid confusing it with calcite, which is softer and cleaves readily. Common worldwide, especially Brazil, Arkansas, Madagascar, and Alpine regions.