mineral

Quartz (specifically Milky/White Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the cooling of silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal activity in veins. It is found in a wide variety of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages, but commonly associated with pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and electronics (due to piezoelectric properties). Often used as a construction aggregate, for landscaping, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry or for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the German word 'Quarz', which likely originated from Slavic roots meaning 'hard'. It is known for its ability to produce an electric signal when mechanical stress is applied.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass and steel knife blades), lack of cleavage, and typical conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges and riverbeds. For collectors, look for distinct crystal faces, though this specimen appears massive/unstated.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

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metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

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Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

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