mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Found in a variety of geological settings, primarily in igneous rocks like granite or hydrothermal veins where silicon-rich fluids cool and crystallize over millions of years. Commonly associated with pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative gravel or low-cost semi-precious gemstones in jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant and widely distributed mineral found at Earth's surface. Milky quartz gets its characteristic cloudy appearance from tiny fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. It is extremely common in rocky terrain, riverbeds, and as veins in mountains.