mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale). Color: Opaque white due to many tiny gas or fluid inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Opaque white due to many tiny gas or fluid inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. Milky quartz can be found in almost all geological environments and ranges in age from Precambrian to modern times.

Uses & applications

Used in the gemstone industry for decorative carvings or beads, in glassmaking as a source of silica, and as an abrasive. In construction, it is used as a component of concrete or as decorative gravel.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white appearance is caused by microscopic 'bubbles' of fluid or CO2 trapped during the crystal's growth, which scatter light.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and as cobbles in riverbeds worldwide. Tips: Look for translucent edges.