mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cream, or translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White, cream, or translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cream, or translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma in veins and pegmatites. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found globally across all geological eras.

Uses & applications

Used as a base material in glassmaking, abrasives, and the silicon industry. Small or unique specimens are popular in rock collecting and spiritual practices.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the main component of most beach sands and many river gravels.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will easily scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its waxy or vitreous luster. It is often found as veins cutting through other rock types.