mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to grayish due to microscopic fluid inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white to grayish due to microscopic fluid inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified February 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specimen likely originated in a pegmatite or hydrothermal vein environment, common across many geological ages from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, as an abrasive, in the electronics industry for its piezoelectric properties, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or jewelry (as 'snow quartz').

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white color is caused by tiny bubbles of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth, which scatter light like fog in the air.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent white appearance. It is found globally, often in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and as veins within other rock types like granite or schist.