mineral

Quartz-rich vein rock, possibly milky quartz with iron-oxide staining

Quartz (SiO₂), likely with limonite/goethite and minor host-rock material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to gray, translucent-to-opaque, vitreous/waxy luster with irregular fracture; apparent hardness about Mohs 7, no cleavage, specific gravity ~2.65. The brown coloration is likely iron-oxide staining; the specimen appears partly crystalline and partly weathered or attached to host rock.

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Probably formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures in surrounding rock, later weathering to expose the vein. Such quartz veins may range from Precambrian to younger ages; the photograph cannot establish an exact age.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, ceramics, construction aggregate, electronics, and as a collector specimen. This rough, stained piece has limited gem value but may be attractive as a mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly shows conchoidal fracture and scratches glass. Brown coatings can be limonite or goethite rather than part of the quartz itself.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in quartz veins and stream gravels, including areas around the Horn of Africa. Test with a steel knife (quartz should resist scratching) and check for glass-scratching ability; acid testing is unnecessary. The regional location is compatible with quartz-rich veins, but the image cannot distinguish quartz from calcite with certainty—calcite would be much softer and may fizz in dilute acid.