mineral

Raw quartz (milky quartz), possibly iron-stained

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), trigonal crystal system

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to translucent, glassy-to-greasy luster with granular/drusy texture and orange-red iron-oxide staining; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, uneven to conchoidal fracture, specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen appears massive rather than showing well-formed crystals.

Identified September 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cool in veins, cavities, or pegmatites; milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions and fractures. Quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings, and the orange coloration likely developed through later weathering and oxidation of iron.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are collected or used as lapidary material. This rough specimen is generally decorative rather than jewelry grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, making it common in soils, stream gravels, and sand. Iron staining can produce yellow, orange, pink, or reddish surface colors.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness—quartz scratches ordinary glass and cannot be scratched by a steel knife—plus its lack of cleavage and conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.