mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to creamy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, granitic pegmatites, and as a primary constituent in many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Formed across all geological ages when silica-rich fluids cool or deposit.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, construction aggregates, and as decorative gravel or tumbled stones.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its characteristic white, cloudy appearance from tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque color. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and glacial deposits. Look for a waxy or glassy sheen on broken surfaces.