mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silica - SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white to pale translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified February 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Can be found in geological environments ranging from billions of years old to recent hydrothermal deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in the glass and ceramics industry, as an abrasive, in construction as aggregate, and occasionally in jewelry as cabochons. It is also a primary ore for silicon used in electronics.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. Some milky quartz veins are associated with gold deposits, making them high-priority targets for prospectors.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), conchoidal fracture (curved glass-like breaks), and lack of cleavage. It is found worldwide, especially in mountainous regions and riverbeds. Collectors look for large, well-defined crystal points.