mineral

Quartz (Milky or White Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque 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: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque 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. It is found in all types of geological environments and can be from any geological age, often occurring in veins or as a primary component of granitic rocks.

Uses & applications

Used widely in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, and as a raw material in the electronics industry for silicon chips. In decorative forms, it is used for landscaping, jewelry (as 'snow quartz'), and countertops.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. White quartz gets its milky appearance from tiny microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass, its lack of cleavage, and its waxy or vitreous luster. It is found globally in riverbeds, mountains, and beaches. Collectors should look for clean edges or hexagonal crystal points.

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