
metamorphic
Quartz-rich foliated rock, possibly milky quartz vein material
Likely quartz-rich metamorphic rock; exact identification is uncertain from the image
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale cream to white, with a rough, uneven surface and possible faint foliation or rusty mineral staining. If quartz-dominant, hardness is about 7 Mohs and luster ranges from vitreous to dull on weathered surfaces; no obvious cleavage.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Quartz-rich foliated rock, possibly milky quartz vein material in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pale cream to white, with a rough, uneven surface and possible faint foliation or rusty mineral staining. If quartz-dominant, hardness is about 7 Mohs and luster ranges from vitreous to dull on weathered surfaces; no obvious cleavage.
Formation & geological history
May have formed through metamorphism or recrystallization of silica-rich material; the image alone does not establish its origin or age.
Uses & applications
Quartz-rich rocks may be collected as specimens or used as silica feedstock and, when suitable, in aggregate or decorative stone.
Geological facts
The flat, layered appearance could also indicate a different pale rock, such as weathered slate or limestone; a fresh surface and simple tests would help distinguish them.
Field identification & locations
Check hardness against glass and look for fizzing with dilute acid: quartz scratches glass and does not fizz, while calcite-rich limestone fizzes. Common quartz-rich rocks occur in many mountain belts and vein systems.
More like this
Other metamorphic specimens
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Amphibolite
Amphibolite
metamorphic
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (Mn, Fe, Mg, Ca)SiO3
mineral
Rhodonite
(Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
mineral
Greenschist
Greenschist (containing Chlorite, Actinolite, and Epidote)
metamorphic
Garnet
Garnet group: X3Y2(SiO4)3 (commonly Almandine-Pyrope series)
mineral