mineral
Tumbled milky quartz
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmooth, rounded, polished pebble with translucent white to cream color and vitreous-to-waxy luster. Quartz has hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65; the apparent beige lower area may be matrix, staining, or lighting.
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Physical properties
Smooth, rounded, polished pebble with translucent white to cream color and vitreous-to-waxy luster. Quartz has hardness 7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65; the apparent beige lower area may be matrix, staining, or lighting.
Formation & geological history
Quartz formed from silica-rich fluids in veins or igneous and metamorphic rocks, then was shaped and polished by tumbling. Quartz is abundant from Precambrian to modern geological settings; this processed specimen cannot be age-dated visually.
Uses & applications
Used in glass, electronics, abrasives, countertops, and lapidary work; attractive milky quartz is mainly decorative or collectible.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or fine mineral impurities scattering light.
Field identification & locations
Common worldwide and geologically plausible near 43.2°N, 79.8°W, where quartz occurs in glacial sediments and local bedrock-derived gravels. Confirm with a scratch test: it should scratch ordinary glass, while steel generally does not scratch it.
