mineral
Quartz heart (likely milky/included quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent with glassy luster and internal fractures or inclusions. It has a hexagonal crystal structure, indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent with glassy luster and internal fractures or inclusions. It has a hexagonal crystal structure, indistinct cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and sedimentary or metamorphic environments over widely varying geological ages. The heart shape indicates human cutting and polishing rather than a natural crystal form.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental carvings, décor, metaphysical collecting, and occasionally jewelry; quartz is also important industrially in glass, ceramics, electronics, and abrasives.
Geological facts
The cloudy appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities. Despite its pale color, it is genuine quartz if it scratches ordinary glass and does not fizz in dilute acid.
Field identification & locations
Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and alpine or hydrothermal districts. Look for quartz’s hardness, glassy fracture, and lack of cleavage; confirm with a gemological test because calcite or glass can resemble it.
