mineral
Tumbled milky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; translucent white to pale yellow, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no cleavage. It has a trigonal crystal structure, though tumbling has rounded and obscured its crystal form; specific gravity is about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent white to pale yellow, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no cleavage. It has a trigonal crystal structure, though tumbling has rounded and obscured its crystal form; specific gravity is about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, pegmatites, and igneous rocks, with specimens commonly dating from millions to billions of years old. The rounded shape indicates human tumbling and polishing.
Uses & applications
Used as a low-cost lapidary material, decorative stone, carvings, and occasionally beads or cabochons; it is generally not valuable as fine jewelry material.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities scattering light. Pale yellow coloration may reflect iron staining or natural heat-related defects.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy-to-waxy appearance, lack of cleavage, white streak, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and India.
