mineral

Tumbled milky quartz

Quartz — silicon dioxide (SiO₂), cryptocrystalline or microcrystalline variety possible

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent white to pale gray, vitreous-to-waxy luster, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture, trigonal crystal structure. The rounded, waterworn or tumbled shape and translucent appearance are consistent with quartz, though chalcedony is also possible.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz forms in igneous, metamorphic, and hydrothermal environments when silica crystallizes; its geological age may range from recent deposits to billions of years. This specimen has been naturally or mechanically rounded and polished.

Uses & applications

Used for ornamental objects, lapidary work, carvings, countertops, glass, and electronics; attractive pieces may be sold as inexpensive cabochons or curios.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudiness from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities. It can resemble white chalcedony, moonstone, or man-made glass.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, granitic rocks, pegmatites, stream gravels, and beaches worldwide. Test with a steel file or glass: quartz can scratch ordinary glass, while its lack of bubbles and conchoidal fracture help distinguish it from glass.