mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to opaque
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to opaque; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and widely sold as tumbled stones for decoration or metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While it lacks the transparency of rock crystal, it is chemically identical. It is found in almost all geological environments.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic white cloudy appearance. Often found in quartz veins and as pebbles in stream beds.