mineral
Tumbled quartz-rich stone, likely milky quartz
Quartz (SiO₂), possibly iron-stained milky quartz or quartzite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically Mohs hardness 7, white to cream with translucent edges, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no visible cleavage; the rounded shape indicates tumbling. Brown-orange marks are likely iron-oxide staining or included matrix.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Tumbled quartz-rich stone, likely milky quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Typically Mohs hardness 7, white to cream with translucent edges, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no visible cleavage; the rounded shape indicates tumbling. Brown-orange marks are likely iron-oxide staining or included matrix.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous melts; quartzite forms when quartz sandstone is metamorphosed. Ages vary widely, commonly millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Used for carvings, lapidary pieces, tumbling, countertops, glass, ceramics, and abrasives; this small specimen has modest decorative or educational value.
Geological facts
Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the principal component of many sands and sandstones. A steel blade should not scratch it, though quartz can scratch ordinary glass.
Field identification & locations
Common in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks worldwide, especially river gravels and pegmatites. Confirm with a glass-scratch test and inspect for granular texture if distinguishing quartzite from massive quartz.
