mineral

Quartz-rich rock fragment, possibly milky quartz with iron staining

Quartz (SiO₂), potentially vein quartz or quartz-bearing pegmatite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, vitreous luster, irregular fracture, and apparent crystalline texture; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, with no cleavage and specific gravity about 2.65. Orange-brown areas likely reflect iron-oxide staining, while the surrounding gray material may be attached host rock.

Identified September 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in a hydrothermal quartz vein or silica-rich igneous body as mineral-bearing fluids cooled in fractures; its exact geological age and host rock cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; attractive pieces may be collected, though this specimen appears modest and uncut.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly forms six-sided crystals, but fractured vein quartz often appears massive and irregular. Milky opacity results from microscopic fluid inclusions or defects in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and a white streak; it is commonly found in veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic terrains worldwide. The image alone cannot exclude calcite or feldspar without hardness or acid testing.