mineral

Weathered quartz-rich rock, likely milky quartz or quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂), possibly quartzite with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Cream to honey-brown, opaque to translucent, with a dull-to-glassy luster and irregular fracture; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.65. The brown coloration likely comes from hydrated iron oxides, while the rough texture suggests weathering or a quartzite matrix.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids or magma; quartzite forms when sandstone is metamorphosed and its grains recrystallize. An exact geological age and origin cannot be determined from the photograph alone.

Uses & applications

Common quartz-rich material is used as aggregate, construction stone, abrasives, and silica feedstock; attractive pieces may be collected but are generally not gem quality.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant, so it commonly survives erosion as rounded stream or beach pebbles.

Field identification & locations

Look for hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, white streak, lack of cleavage, and glassy fracture; iron staining produces yellow, orange, or brown patches. Common worldwide, especially in quartz veins, metamorphic terrains, and sedimentary gravel deposits.