mineral

White quartz (likely milky quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually hardness 7 Mohs, white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and a hexagonal crystal structure; lacks cleavage and shows conchoidal fracture. The irregular piece appears somewhat weathered or roughly broken.

Identified August 25, 2026More mineral →

Explore White quartz (likely milky quartz) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; quartz commonly ranges from Precambrian to modern in age. Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions or fractures.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, engineered stone, abrasives, and electronics; attractive transparent pieces are collected or cut as gemstones. This specimen appears common rather than gem grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is highly resistant to weathering, making it common in sand and stream gravels.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; a steel nail should not scratch it. Common worldwide, especially in hydrothermal veins and granitic terrains.