mineral

Milky Quartz Fragment

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to milky translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or cooling igneous pegmatites. This fragment likely comes from a larger quartz vein that has undergone mechanical weathering or intentional crushing.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative gravel in landscaping or construction.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white streak. Found globally in almost all geological environments, particularly mountain ranges and riverbeds.