mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in wide variety of environments, most commonly from the cooling of magma in igneous rocks or through hydrothermal veins. It can be found in sedimentary deposits after erosion or within metamorphic rocks like quartzite. It is found in nearly all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and widely in the gemstone and jewelry industry as beads or tumbled stones.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from microscopic inclusions of fluids (gas or liquid) trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass, lack of cleavage, and white 'milky' appearance. It is found globally, often as river rocks or vein outcrops. Collectors should look for smooth, water-worn specimens or clusters with defined terminations.

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