mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified February 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in a wide variety of geological environments ranging from igneous plutons to metamorphic schists. Milky quartz specifically gets its color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in the glassmaking industry, as an abrasive in sandpaper, in the production of silicon for computer chips, as decorative landscaping stone, and occasionally in jewelry as cabochons or beads.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. Historically, it was used by ancient civilizations to create stone tools due to its hardness and predictable fracturing.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass and steel), lack of cleavage, and white 'cloudy' appearance. It is ubiquitous globally but prominent in the Appalachian Mountains, the Alps, and Brazil. Collectors look for pieces with visible crystal faces or interesting mineral inclusions.

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