mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a component of igneous rocks. The milky color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as low-cost decorative stones or landscaping gravel.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz found globally.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white waxy appearance. Commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as veins within granite or metamorphic rock.