mineral

Weathered quartz-rich cobble, likely milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly ferruginous milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Creamy white to pale orange, dull-to-waxy luster, massive granular texture, and no visible cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape and surface pitting indicate abrasion and weathering, while orange-brown patches likely reflect iron-oxide staining.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz formed in veins or quartz-rich igneous/metamorphic rocks, then was released by weathering and rounded in stream or slope deposits. Quartz is geologically ancient and may occur in rocks of many ages; the specimen’s exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Common quartz cobbles are mainly collected as curiosities or used as decorative stone and aggregate; attractive translucent pieces may be polished. This specimen appears common and has little gem value.

Geological facts

Milky quartz owes its cloudiness to microscopic fluid inclusions or structural defects. The apparent orange color is more consistent with hematite/goethite staining than with orange quartz itself.

Field identification & locations

Likely identifiable by its pale color, hardness, massive texture, and lack of cleavage; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Quartz-rich gravels and veins are plausible near 7.8°N, 37.2°E, though a precise locality requires testing.