mineral
Tumbled quartz
Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; colorless to milky white, with vitreous luster and translucent transparency. It has a trigonal crystal structure and lacks cleavage, breaking conchoidally; the rounded shape is from tumbling and polishing.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; colorless to milky white, with vitreous luster and translucent transparency. It has a trigonal crystal structure and lacks cleavage, breaking conchoidally; the rounded shape is from tumbling and polishing.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, igneous rocks, and sedimentary cavities when silica-rich fluids crystallize. Quartz is common throughout Earth’s geological history; the pictured piece is human-processed rather than naturally rounded.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental stones, metaphysical collecting, jewelry, glass, ceramics, abrasives, and electronics. Common tumbled pieces have modest decorative value.
Geological facts
Clear quartz is called rock crystal; cloudy areas result from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities. This specimen may also be sold as “snow quartz” if its milky appearance is prominent.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fractures, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Quartz occurs worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps.
