mineral

White quartz-rich pebble, possibly milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to pale bluish, opaque-to-translucent, with a vitreous to waxy luster and irregular fracture; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. Brown patches may be iron-oxide staining or attached host material.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when silica-rich fluids filled fractures or cavities, later weathering into a rounded pebble; its exact geological age and source cannot be determined from the image. Common in igneous, metamorphic, and hydrothermal settings.

Uses & applications

Used for silica, glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and occasionally carvings or low-grade ornamental specimens. This small irregular piece has minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is cloudy because microscopic fluid inclusions or defects scatter light. It can resemble white calcite, but quartz is substantially harder and does not react vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Field identification & locations

Common in stream gravels, quartz veins, granites, and metamorphic terrains worldwide. Test with a steel file or glass-scratch test, while avoiding damage to collectible material; quartz should scratch glass and resist a steel knife.