mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It can be found in a wide variety of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in industry as an abrasive, in the production of glass and ceramics, and in electronics for its piezoelectric properties. Used in jewelry as 'tumbled stones' or beads, and popular among mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and stark white opacity. Commonly found in mountain ranges, riverbeds, and as veins in granite. It is an indicator mineral for gold in certain hydrothermal veins.