igneous

Quartz-rich pegmatite (likely milky quartz with mica)

Quartz (SiO₂), with possible muscovite/biotite mica; exact rock identification is uncertain from the photo

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Coarse, pale gray-white, irregularly crystalline and sparkly. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, and a hexagonal crystal structure; mica flakes are softer and split into sheets.

Identified October 7, 2026More igneous →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich pegmatite (likely milky quartz with mica)
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), with possible muscovite/biotite mica; exact rock identification is uncertain from the photo
Category: igneous
Identified: October 7, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common, unprepared hand specimen; larger or unusually mineral-rich pieces may be worth more.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Coarse, pale gray-white, irregularly crystalline and sparkly. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous luster, and a hexagonal crystal structure; mica flakes are softer and split into sheets.

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as a coarse-grained igneous pegmatite from slowly cooling, silica-rich residual magma, often in veins within older rocks. Its age cannot be determined from appearance alone.

Uses & applications

Quartz-rich material is used for glass, silica products, and decorative stone; mica is used in electrical and industrial products. This rough specimen appears to have modest decorative or collecting value.

Geological facts

Pegmatites can contain exceptionally large crystals and concentrated rare minerals, though none are clearly identifiable here.

Field identification & locations

Look for interlocking, coarse crystals and glittering mica flakes; quartz should scratch glass and resist a steel knife. Pegmatites occur worldwide, commonly near granite intrusions.