mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The white color is caused by tiny liquid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth. Can be millions to billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, abrasive manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as decorative stones in jewelry and landscaping.
Geological facts
Milkiness is often caused by micro-cavities containing fluids that were present during the mineral's formation. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Common worldwide, especially in mountain ranges and riverbeds.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral