mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They are found in geological environments ranging from Precambrian to Cenozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Used in the ceramics and glass industries, as an abrasive, in construction as decorative aggregate, and frequently in jewelry as cabochons or beads. Also popular for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While it lacks the transparency of rock crystal, its cloudy appearance is due to millions of tiny bubble-like inclusions that occurred millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its white color, ability to scratch glass, and lack of cleavage planes. Found globally in veins, mountains, and riverbeds. Collectors should look for unique shapes or associations with other minerals.