mineral

Milky and Citrine-type Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent orange-brown to white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Translucent orange-brown to white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma in igneous veins or through hydrothermal precipitation in rock cavities. The orange tint is often caused by micro-inclusions of iron hydroxides or radiation-induced defects.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in the glassmaking industry, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as semi-precious gemstones in jewelry and decorative carvings.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. While natural citrine is rare, most orange quartz found in the field is actually iron-stained milky quartz or heat-treated amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and characteristic waxy or glassy luster. Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial till, and mountainous outcroppings.

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