mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to pale milky white with iron staining (reddish-brown); Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to pale milky white with iron staining (reddish-brown)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily as hydrothermal veins in igneous or metamorphic environments when silica-rich fluids cool. The cloudiness is caused by tiny fluid inclusions (bubbles) trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. High-purity quartz is used in electronics and silicon chip production. Frequently used as a decorative stone in landscaping or polished as a gemstone for jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically gets its appearance from thousands of microscopic gas and liquid bubbles that scatter light.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its white color, inability to be scratched by a steel blade (hardness 7), and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in stream beds or as veins in mountain outcrops.