mineral

Quartz (White/Milky)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of silica-rich magma or through hydrothermal vein activity. It is persistent across all geological ages due to its high chemical and physical stability.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as gemstones or decorative carvings.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its white appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in almost all rock types and geographic regions.