mineral

Milky Quartz

Crystalline Quartz (SiO2)

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

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

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Quartz forms in many environments, but milky quartz typically crystallizes from hydrothermal fluids during the final stages of magmatic cooling. The white color is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass making, as a source for silicon, and in landscaping. Polished stones are used in jewelry and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz found in nature.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass but not be scratched by steel), lack of cleavage, and white opaque appearance. Frequently found in veins within igneous or metamorphic rocks.