metamorphic

Quartz-rich rock fragment, possibly milky quartz or quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), likely with minor iron-oxide or feldspar staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to cream, opaque, uneven granular texture, and vitreous to dull luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. The small irregular specimen appears naturally weathered or broken.

Identified September 16, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Quartz-rich rock fragment, possibly milky quartz or quartzite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed from crystallized silica in a quartz vein or from metamorphosed sandstone (quartzite); quartz veins form in hydrothermal fractures, while quartzite commonly develops during regional metamorphism. Precise age and origin cannot be determined from the image alone.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone; quartzite is used as aggregate, building stone, and countertops. This small fragment has minimal commercial value unless unusually pure or provenance-documented.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is resistant to weathering, often accumulating in streambeds and soils after softer minerals break down.

Field identification & locations

Common in mountain regions, stream gravels, and areas with granitic or metamorphic rocks; identify by its hardness, lack of cleavage, and glassy fracture. A steel knife should not scratch it, though visual testing is inconclusive.