igneous

Quartz-rich pegmatite, possibly milky quartz with muscovite

Quartz (SiO₂) with probable muscovite mica [KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂]

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 2–2.5 for muscovite and 7 for quartz; pale gray-white, vitreous to pearly luster, irregular granular crystals, and prominent mica cleavage. The specimen appears coarse-grained and sparkly, though exact identification is limited by the photograph.

Identified September 14, 2026More igneous →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich pegmatite, possibly milky quartz with muscovite
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂) with probable muscovite mica [KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂]
Category: igneous
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $3–$20 for a common hand specimen; $25–$100+ if crystals are unusually large, aesthetic, or locality-labeled.

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

Formation & geological history

Likely formed as a slowly cooled, silica-rich granitic pegmatite melt, allowing large quartz and mica crystals to grow; commonly Precambrian to Phanerozoic in age. It may also be a quartz-mica vein fragment.

Uses & applications

Quartz pegmatite is used for silica, ceramics, glass, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected as mineral specimens. Muscovite has historical electrical and industrial uses, while gem-quality quartz may be cut or polished.

Geological facts

The reflective flakes are characteristic of mica, whose sheets separate into thin elastic layers; quartz is much harder and will scratch ordinary glass.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy gray-white quartz intergrown with silvery, sheet-like mica and uneven fracture. Common in granitic terrains and pegmatite districts worldwide, including Brazil, the United States, India, and Madagascar.