mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to tan with dark inclusions/veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to tan with dark inclusions/veins
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or cooling igneous rock bodies like pegmatites. The milky color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Can be found in rocks from almost any geological age.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stone or semi-precious gemstones.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust. Milky quartz specifically gets its appearance from thousands of microscopic fluid-filled cavities.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel) and lack of cleavage. It is extremely common in riverbeds, gravel, and mountain regions worldwide.