mineral
Small quartz-rich rock fragment (tentative)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), possibly in a feldspar-bearing granite fragment
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOff-white, irregular angular fragment with a dull to weakly vitreous luster; crystal structure is trigonal for quartz, Mohs hardness about 7, and no cleavage. The photograph is too distant to confirm grain texture or distinguish quartz from pale feldspar/calcite.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Small quartz-rich rock fragment (tentative) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Off-white, irregular angular fragment with a dull to weakly vitreous luster; crystal structure is trigonal for quartz, Mohs hardness about 7, and no cleavage. The photograph is too distant to confirm grain texture or distinguish quartz from pale feldspar/calcite.
Formation & geological history
Likely a weathered fragment of common continental crust, potentially glacially transported in western Russia; quartz crystallized in igneous or metamorphic rock, generally during Precambrian–Paleozoic geological events. Regional origin is plausible but cannot be established from the image.
Uses & applications
As an isolated chip it has negligible practical or collector value; quartz-bearing rocks are widely used as aggregate, building stone, silica, and abrasives. Transparent quartz varieties can be used as gemstones, but this specimen is not gem-quality.
Geological facts
The apparent cream-white color is compatible with quartz, feldspar, or calcite. A steel blade should not scratch quartz; vinegar or dilute acid fizzing would suggest calcite instead.
Field identification & locations
Found commonly in gravel, glacial till, road fill, and weathered granite or metamorphic terrain near 54.8°N, 32.0°E. A close-up, scratch test, streak test, and acid test are needed for reliable identification.
