mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white to grayish
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and widely as a decorative stone or for lapidary work.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found in nature.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, white streak, and translucent white color. Commonly found in quartz veins and as a primary constituent of granitic rocks.