mineral

Milky Quartz (Tumbled)

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 25, 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 from the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling of igneous magma. Its white color is caused by tiny inclusion of gas, liquid, or both, trapped during crystal growth. It can be found in rocks from virtually any geological age.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and widely used in jewelry (as beads/cabochons) or as decorative 'healing crystals'.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. In ancient times, some believed quartz was permanently frozen ice because it was found near glaciers.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Common worldwide in veins. For collectors, look for pebbles in stream beds or vein outcrops in granitic terrain.

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