mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white, opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to off-white, opaque
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white, opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They can be found in a wide variety of geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used as a common decorative stone, in construction as aggregate, in glassmaking, and in metaphysical collecting. Highly pure quartz is used in electronics and clocks.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. Some milky quartz contains minute amounts of gold within its structure in specific geological districts.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its waxy or vitreous luster. It is commonly found in riverbeds, gravel pits, and mountain ranges globally.