mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

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

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

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny pocket inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Can be found in various geological ages globally.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive in sandblasting, in the production of silicon chips for electronics, as landscaping stone, and occasionally in jewelry as tumbled stones or cabochons.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically is common in gold-bearing hydrothermal veins and was historically used by prospectors to locate gold deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its white color, inability to be scratched by a steel knife, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in irregular, curved shards). Found in riverbeds, mountains, and desert landscapes worldwide.