mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to cloudy translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to cloudy translucent, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. It is found in geological formations across all ages.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, abrasive manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectricity), and as ornamental stone or landscaping gravel.
Geological facts
The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of liquid or gas trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. Found globally in mountainous regions and riverbeds.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral