
mineral
Tumbled milky quartz
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, often massive with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The yellow-brown seam likely reflects iron-oxide staining or a minor inclusion.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, often massive with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The yellow-brown seam likely reflects iron-oxide staining or a minor inclusion.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich fluids crystallized in veins or cavities, commonly in igneous and metamorphic rocks; quartz is widespread from Precambrian to modern geological settings. Its rounded shape indicates human tumbling or natural abrasion.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental stones, carvings, countertops, abrasives, glass, and electronics; attractive pieces are sold as inexpensive lapidary specimens.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities that scatter light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy/waxy appearance, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel blade should not scratch it. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins and pegmatites.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
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metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary