mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to creamy white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a primary constituent in igneous rocks like granite. Often found in pegmatites and metamorphic environments.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, in construction as aggregate, and occasionally as a semi-precious gemstone or decorative rock.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white, opaque appearance from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas and liquid that were trapped during the crystal's growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, white color, and waxy luster. It is found globally and is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust.