mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Opaque white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Opaque white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or the cooling of silica-saturated magma. Milky quartz gets its appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive in sandblasting, in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, as a flux in smelting, and frequently used in landscaping or as a gemstone in costume jewelry.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. The white cloudy appearance is caused by millions of microscopic bubbles that were trapped during the mineral's formation.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and characteristic waxy or glassy luster. Found globally in veins, pegmatites, and as a major component in many igneous rocks like granite.