mineral
White Quartz (Milky Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Opaque white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Opaque white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in a wide variety of geological environments over billions of years.
Uses & applications
Used fundamentally in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or tumbled for jewelry and spiritual collections.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy white appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and milky opacity. Commonly found in quartz veins, pegmatites, and as river pebbles.
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
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Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
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