mineral

Quartz (Milky or White Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Milky white to translucent. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal. Cleavage: Poor/None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified February 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, abrasive blasting, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction aggregates, and semi-precious jewelry/decorative carvings.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal (shell-like) fracture patterns. Frequently found in mountain ranges and riverbeds globally.

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Mineral/Rock

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Metamorphic Rock

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