mineral

Tumbled milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), cryptocrystalline to microcrystalline variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to cream, translucent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; no cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape and smooth surface indicate mechanical tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich fluids crystallize in fractures and cavities, commonly in igneous, metamorphic, and hydrothermal environments. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian to modern geological settings; the specimen has been human-processed.

Uses & applications

Used for carvings, ornamental stone, lapidary material, décor, and inexpensive jewelry; industrial quartz is important in glass, ceramics, electronics, and abrasives.

Geological facts

The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or dispersed mineral impurities. It may be sold as “snow quartz” or “milky quartz,” but visual identification cannot distinguish it confidently from some pale chalcedony.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy-to-waxy luster, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and typically white translucent body. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, the United States, and many other regions.