mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

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

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins where fluid precipitates minerals into rock fractures. It is found in geological settings ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, in the production of silicon chips, and as aggregate in construction. High-quality specimens are used for lapidary work and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white, cloudy appearance from tiny fluid or gas inclusions 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 ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage, and its waxy or vitreous luster. It is common globally, particularly in pegmatites and vein deposits.