mineral

Quartz vein / massive quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), likely milky quartz with iron-oxide and possibly chlorite inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to gray, massive translucent quartz with vitreous to greasy luster and irregular fracture; individual crystal faces are poorly developed. Hardness 7, no cleavage, specific gravity about 2.65. Dark green-gray and rusty patches are likely inclusions or weathering products.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids filled fractures in surrounding rock, probably during regional metamorphism and intrusive activity. The material may be related to the Coast Mountains/Cascade geological systems near 49.3°N, 124.2°W, where quartz veins and metamorphic rocks are common; precise age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used for aggregate, glass, ceramics, and silica products; attractive pieces are collected or cut for cabochons, though this specimen is mainly a field specimen rather than jewelry-grade material.

Geological facts

The cavity (vug) may have once held euhedral quartz crystals that were later broken, dissolved, or coated by secondary minerals. A steel file should not scratch fresh quartz, while quartz can scratch ordinary window glass.

Field identification & locations

Likely identification is massive milky quartz in a mineralized vein, possibly hosted by metamorphic rock. Test fresh surfaces for hardness and inspect cavities with a loupe; acid testing is unnecessary unless carbonate material is suspected. Regional collector value is typically $5-$30, or about $30-$100 if crystals in the cavity are attractive and undamaged.