mineral

White Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in a wide variety of geological ages and environments, particularly in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. High-purity quartz is used in electronics (oscillators) and optics. It is also common in jewelry and as a decorative stone.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and glassy appearance. Commonly found globally in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and beach sands. Collectors should look for well-defined crystal terminations.