mineral

Quartz (Milky/Rose Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent to opaque white/grey with subtle pink iron oxides or rose hues. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in late-stage crystallization of igneous rocks (pegmatites), hydrothermally in veins, and in metamorphic environments where silica-rich fluids deposit silicon dioxide over long periods.

Uses & applications

Used widely as decorative home items, tumbled stones, jewelry beads, raw mineral collection pieces, and in industry for glassmaking, abrasives, and electronics (piezoelectric applications).

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is completely clear, but microscopic gas or fluid inclusions and micro-crystalline impurities create milky or colored variants.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its glass-scratching hardness (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, and uneven to conchoidal fracture surfaces. Commonly found worldwide in pegmatites, riverbeds, and quartz veins. Large raw chunks like this usually range from $5 to $20 depending on size, clarity, and color.