mineral

Quartz-rich rock, likely milky quartz vein material

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-stained massive quartz with minor feldspar or mica

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent gray-white to honey-brown, with vitreous to greasy luster and irregular conchoidal fracture. Massive, non-crystalline appearance; no obvious cleavage, though inclusions and weathering create flaky surfaces.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz-rich rock, likely milky quartz vein material 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 hydrothermal quartz deposited in fractures, later weathered and iron-stained; such veins commonly formed during cooling and deformation of surrounding bedrock, with ages ranging from Precambrian to much younger depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used for silica, glass, ceramics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive pieces may be collected or used decoratively, but this specimen appears ordinary rather than gem-grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is resistant to chemical weathering, allowing vein fragments to persist in soil and stream gravels.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and inability to scratch with a steel knife; it should scratch ordinary glass. Common worldwide in hydrothermal veins and quartz-rich metamorphic rocks.