mineral

Quartz (Milky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to translucent. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified April 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to 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. It is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's crust and can be found in rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sand, and as a component in concrete and mortar. Higher quality specimens are used for jewelry, lapidary art, and precision electronics due to piezoelectric properties.

Geological facts

Milky quartz owes its white color to tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Found worldwide in riverbeds, mountains, and beaches.