mineral

Tumbled white quartz (likely milky quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and cryptocrystalline/massive structure. The smoothly rounded shape indicates tumbling; faint surface scratches and internal veil-like fractures are visible. Quartz has no cleavage and conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Identified September 8, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled white quartz (likely milky quartz) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions and fractures. Quartz is common throughout the Paleozoic sedimentary and glacial deposits of central Iowa.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone, décor, craft material, and inexpensive collectible; quartz is also important industrially in glass, ceramics, abrasives, and electronics. This piece is likely worth about $1–$10.

Geological facts

Its spherical form is manufactured by rotary tumbling, not natural weathering. A steel file should not scratch it easily, while quartz or a hardened steel point can scratch many softer materials.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its high hardness, pale translucent body, lack of cleavage, and glassy fracture. In the reported central-Iowa location, glacially transported quartz pebbles and tumbled commercial quartz are plausible; the image alone cannot distinguish natural local quartz from a purchased specimen.