mineral

Quartz-rich rock, possibly milky quartz with iron staining

Quartz (SiO₂), likely with limonite/goethite inclusions and minor feldspar or carbonate

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale cream to translucent yellow-white, glassy to waxy luster, irregular fracture, and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs and specific gravity about 2.65. The brown patches likely represent iron-oxide staining or inclusions.

Identified September 21, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz-rich rock, possibly milky quartz with iron staining
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), likely with limonite/goethite inclusions and minor feldspar or carbonate
Category: mineral
Identified: September 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 as an ordinary hand specimen; $25–$100+ if the locality, inclusions, or crystal form is unusually attractive.

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

Most likely formed in a hydrothermal vein or silica-rich pegmatitic environment, where quartz crystallized from hot fluids and later weathered. The specimen’s exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and construction aggregate; attractive pieces are collected as mineral specimens. This example has modest decorative value unless locality or crystal form proves distinctive.

Geological facts

Milky quartz becomes cloudy because microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or other minerals scatter light. Yellow-brown coloration commonly develops when iron-bearing minerals oxidize near the surface.

Field identification & locations

Look for scratch resistance against glass, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; avoid relying on color alone. Common worldwide in quartz veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.