mineral
Quartz (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent beige, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent beige, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Formed from cooling silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. Often found in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks across many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, jewelry (semiprecious), and electronics for its piezoelectric properties. Major component in construction aggregate and sand.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's crust. Milky quartz gets its opaque color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its ability to scratch glass and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and as gravel. Look for the distinct greasy luster on fresh fractures.
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Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
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Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
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Schist
Schist
Metamorphic