mineral

Quartz-rich rock, likely milky quartz or quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly quartzite with minor iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, glassy to sugary luster, abundant interlocking crystals, no obvious cleavage, Mohs hardness 7, and specific gravity about 2.65. The brown-gold specks may be iron oxides or mica; exact identification requires testing.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous melts; quartzite forms when quartz sandstone is metamorphosed. Its age depends on its parent rock and cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and countertops; attractive crystal pieces are collected or used decoratively. It is generally not gem-quality because of its opaque, heavily fractured texture.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly forms six-sided prisms, though this specimen appears as a compact cluster or quartz-rich fragment. Iron staining can produce cream, yellow, or rusty-brown coloration.

Field identification & locations

Identify with hardness: quartz scratches ordinary glass and is not scratched by a steel knife; it lacks cleavage and shows irregular fracture. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic terrains.