mineral
Tumbled milky quartz (likely iron-stained)
Quartz — silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-yellow color, vitreous to waxy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. Rounded edges indicate tumbling or natural water abrasion.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent cream to honey-yellow color, vitreous to waxy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65. Rounded edges indicate tumbling or natural water abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallized from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous/metamorphic processes; the cloudy appearance comes from microscopic fluid inclusions, while yellow coloration likely reflects iron staining. Quartz ranges from Precambrian to recent in age and occurs worldwide.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative tumbled stone, lapidary material, glass and ceramic silica, and occasionally jewelry; this small common piece has minimal commercial value.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is cloudy because inclusions scatter light; its hardness allows it to scratch ordinary glass and resist weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy sheen, hardness, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and alpine or hydrothermal veins. Estimated value: $1–$10 for a common tumbled specimen.
