mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Opaque white to translucent. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/None (Conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich magma or hydrothermal fluids in veins. Milky quartz specifically gets its appearance from tiny fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth. Found in almost all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in industrial glass making, as an abrasive, in decorative landscaping, and as a semi-precious gemstone for tumbled stones or beads in jewelry.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. The white 'milky' color is caused by millions of microscopic bubbles of water or gas trapped within the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and common occurrence in veins. Frequently found in riverbeds and mountainous terrain globally.