mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

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

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. Often found in pegmatites and hydrothermal environments. The 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, and as a source of silicon for electronics. Lower grade milky quartz is used as landscaping stone, construction aggregate, and occasionally for carvings or cabochons in inexpensive jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Historically, it was used by many cultures to create tools and weapons due to its hardness and ability to fracture into sharp edges.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), Lack of cleavage, and translucent white color. It is commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as veins within other rock types like granite or schist.