mineral

Weathered quartz-rich rock, likely milky quartz/quartzite

Quartz (SiO₂); possibly quartzite if metamorphosed sandstone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to gray, vitreous-to-waxy luster, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with iron-oxide staining and weathered surfaces. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Could be a quartz vein fragment or resistant quartzite gravel; quartz commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids, while quartzite forms by metamorphism of sandstone. Exact age and origin cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces may be collected or used decoratively, but this specimen appears low-grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to chemical weathering, so it commonly accumulates in streambeds, beaches, and gravel deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness, lack of cleavage, glassy fracture, and inability to scratch it with a steel nail; a streak test should be white. Common worldwide, especially in quartz-vein and quartzite terrains.