mineral

White Quartz (Milky Quartz Pebble)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (cryptocrystalline in river pebbles); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or precipitation from hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen appears to be a water-worn river pebble, shaped by erosion over thousands to millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction aggregates, landscaping, and as semi-precious tumbled stones for jewelry and decor.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on the Earth's surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife and its lack of cleavage planes. Frequently found in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial till globally.

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