mineral
Small rough quartz crystal
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectAppears translucent to milky-white with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; the small, rough specimen does not show diagnostic crystal faces clearly. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage.
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Physical properties
Appears translucent to milky-white with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture; the small, rough specimen does not show diagnostic crystal faces clearly. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, and no cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities, or forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Its age and precise geological setting cannot be determined from the photo.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glassmaking, electronics, abrasives, and as a decorative or collectible mineral; this fragment appears too small for jewelry use.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and occurs in many varieties, including amethyst, citrine, and rose quartz.
Field identification & locations
Look for hardness (it scratches ordinary glass), glassy luster, and lack of cleavage; common worldwide in veins, granites, and stream gravels. The photo’s scale and appearance support quartz, but do not establish it conclusively.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
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