mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to pale lavender/blue-gray; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to pale lavender/blue-gray
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to pale lavender/blue-gray; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent of many igneous and metamorphic rocks. The cloudy appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as decorative landscape stone or lapidary material.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It is often found in large massive deposits known as quartz reefs which can sometimes contain gold.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and typical white or cloudy appearance. It is ubiquitous globally and often found as pebbles in stream beds.