mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white due to microscopic fluid inclusions; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white due to microscopic fluid inclusions
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of magma or by hydrothermal activity within veins. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in a wide variety of geological ages and environments.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, as an abrasive in sandblasting, in the construction of electronics as a source of silicon, and as decorative gravel or gemstone cabochons.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by tiny bubbles of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's formation. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found in nature.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its white color, ability to scratch glass (hardness 7), and lack of cleavage (it breaks in irregular, shell-like curves). It is found globally, often in riverbeds or protruding from weathered pegmatite veins.