mineral

Milky Quartz with Epidote or Chlorite inclusions

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Epidote {Ca2}{Al2Fe3+}(Si2O7)(SiO4)O(OH)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Opaque white (milky) with green mossy patches; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Opaque white (milky) with green mossy patches
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Opaque white (milky) with green mossy patches; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from hydrothermal solutions cooling in veins and pegmatites. The green coloration is likely caused by the infiltration of secondary minerals like epidote or chlorite during the final stages of crystal growth. These can range from Precambrian to Cenozoic in age.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a decorative collector specimen, for landscaping, or as a source of silica in glass manufacturing. Some specimens are polished into cabochons for jewelry ('moss quartz').

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its signature white color from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during its formation billions of years ago. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. Look for the 'waxy' texture and green moss-like staining. Commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and gravel pits globally.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral