mineral

Milky Quartz (Tumbled)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to pale cream with golden-brown iron staining in cracks; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified March 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The 'milky' appearance is caused by minute fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Found in various geological ages from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in landscaping, as abrasive in sandblasting, in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, and as a popular semi-precious stone for gemstone tumbling, jewelry (pendants/beads), and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While often overlooked for clearer varieties like rock crystal, massive beds of milky quartz can contain significant deposits of gold in hydrothermal veins.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its waxy-to-glassy luster when polished, and the characteristic cloudy internal appearance. It is found globally in pegmatites and mountain ranges. Collectors often find these as river-worn pebbles or in quartz outcroppings.