mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cream, or translucent with yellow-orange iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a primary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Most specimens are found in vein deposits across all geological eras.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. Historically used for making stone tools. Often used in landscaping and as decorative garden stones.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white-cloudy appearance. It is found globally, particularly in mountainous regions and riverbeds.