mineral

Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Clear to milky white
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear to milky white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is found in almost all geological environments and can be any geological age, from billions of years old to relatively modern deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction material (sand/aggregate), and as a gemstone or collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. It is extremely resistant to weathering, which is why it is the primary component of most beach sand.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its conchoidal (shell-like) fracture pattern. Commonly found in veins, riverbeds, and as crystals in geocaching sites worldwide.