mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent (milky due to fluid inclusions), Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites when silicon-rich solutions cool. Often found in continental crust across all geological eras, particularly in areas of volcanic or metamorphic activity.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. Used in electronics for its piezoelectric properties. Frequent use in jewelry as tumbled stones and for decorative landscaping.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white, cloudy appearance is caused by tiny liquid or gas bubbles trapped during the crystal's formation.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife), lack of cleavage, and characteristic waxy-to-glassy luster. It is highly resistant to weathering and often found in riverbeds.