mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, opaque to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White, opaque to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, opaque to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites from late-stage crystallization of cooling magma or through hydrothermal activity. Found in various geological environments from Precambrian to recent periods.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (as a piezoelectric crystal), and as landscaping stone. In jewelry, it is often used for beads or carvings.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white, cloudy appearance from tiny inclusions of gas and liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white milky color. Commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as vein material in granite outcrops.