Milky Quartz with Iron Staining
Quartz · Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive to crystalline habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and magmatic crystallization from silica-rich fluids at varying temperatures
About This Crystal
A rough, milky white quartz chunk exhibiting translucent to opaque zones with prominent surface iron oxide (limonite/hematite) staining yielding yellowish-orange patches
Physical Characteristics
Color is milky white with yellowish-brown iron staining; streak is white; no distinct cleavage; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity around 2.65; brittle tenacity; lacks strong magnetism
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character; refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553; birefringence of 0.009; singly/doubly refractive depending on measurement axis; vitreous to greasy luster
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide; common in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites globally
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; brittle toughness; highly stable against chemicals except hydrofluoric acid; excellent wearability for general handling
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and a soft brush; safe from fading in sunlight; resistant to most common household chemicals
Rarity & Value
Very common; low commercial value for rough unpolished specimens, primarily collected as educational or mineral specimens
Special Characteristics
Exhibits piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties under mechanical stress or temperature change
Lore & History
Historically used across cultures for tools and ornamental carvings; in modern metaphysical practices, quartz is regarded as a master healer stone associated with all chakras, though these are traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims