mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

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

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during the late stages of magma cooling. The white 'milky' color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative stones in landscaping or crystal healing collections.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most common varieties of crystalline quartz on Earth. Its opacity is due to millions of tiny bubbles of water or CO2 trapped within the crystal structure as it formed.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and common occurrence in veins or as pebbles in riverbeds. Found globally in almost all geological environments.