mineral

Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque 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: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in wide variety of environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. Commonly crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal veins or cooling magma. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics (as a piezoelectric material), glass making, abrasive manufacturing, and as a raw material for silicon-based products. Also popular in jewelry and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Quartz is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical weathering. Because of its durability, it is the primary component of most beach sands worldwide.