mineral

Quartz (Milk Quartz / Massive Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to light beige/pink; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to light beige/pink
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to light beige/pink; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of magma or from hydrothermal veins. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Used widely in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative gemstones or collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz, traditionally called rock crystal, is colorless and transparent. The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for a glassy luster on fresh surfaces and a lack of reaction to acid. It is found globally in mountainous terrain and riverbeds.

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