mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They can be found in veins or as massive rock-forming minerals across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in construction as an aggregate, in the glass-making industry, as an abrasive, and frequently as a gemstone for jewelry or metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While often overlooked for clearer varieties like rock crystal, massive veins of milky quartz are sometimes associated with gold deposits in lodes.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct white color, inability to be scratched by a steel knife, and lack of cleavage planes. It is globally ubiquitous, found in almost every mountainous or rocky region.