mineral
Tumbled milky quartz
Quartz (SiO₂), cryptocrystalline-to-massive variety
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectWhite to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster with no visible crystal faces; Mohs hardness 7, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The smooth elongated shape indicates polishing or natural abrasion.
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Physical properties
White to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster with no visible crystal faces; Mohs hardness 7, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The smooth elongated shape indicates polishing or natural abrasion.
Formation & geological history
Quartz formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous and metamorphic processes; its geological age depends on the source rock, commonly Paleozoic to Precambrian. The specimen was likely shaped by tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used as an inexpensive ornamental stone, lapidary material, décor, and occasionally in jewelry; quartz is also important industrially in glass, ceramics, electronics, and abrasives.
Geological facts
Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or dispersed impurities that scatter light. It may be confused with white chalcedony, calcite, or man-made glass.
Field identification & locations
Common in quartz veins, granites, pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, and alluvial gravels worldwide. Scratch testing with steel or glass can help: quartz scratches glass, while calcite does not; avoid testing polished surfaces.
