mineral

Tumbled milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent with a vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and no cleavage. The cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities; crystal structure is trigonal.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled milky quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and igneous melts, commonly in veins and cavities. Its geological age varies widely; this rounded specimen has been mechanically tumbled and polished.

Uses & applications

Used for lapidary ornaments, carvings, cabochons, metaphysical collectibles, glassmaking, and electronics-grade silica. Milky quartz is generally ornamental rather than a high-value gemstone.

Geological facts

The specimen’s curved, smooth shape and polished surface are human-made; natural quartz typically forms angular crystals or massive vein material. It may be confused with white calcite, which is much softer and reacts with dilute acid.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy luster, translucent edges, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel file should not scratch it readily. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and alpine hydrothermal veins.