mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to iron-stained orange/tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to iron-stained orange/tan
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 6, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to iron-stained orange/tan; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. This specimen appears water-worn, suggesting it was transported by a river or coastline. Found in virtually all geological environments.

Uses & applications

Used in construction as a component of concrete, in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectricity), and as decorative landscaping stones or tumbled pocket stones.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. 'Milky' quartz gets its white color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and resistance to weathering. This specific piece shows iron oxide staining (limonite) in the fractures, giving it an orange-brown appearance.