mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to semi-translucent. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to semi-translucent. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal veins or within pegmatites. The white 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. They can be found in geological formations ranging from billions of years old to relatively young deposits.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, and as an abrasive in industry. In construction, it is used as road metal or decorative stone. In jewelry/metaphysical collecting, it is often tumbled or carved.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While it lacks the clarity of rock crystal, it often serves as a 'host' mineral for valuable veins of gold in many of the world's most famous gold mines.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), conchoidal (shell-like) fracture, and lack of cleavage. It is found globally, common in mountain ranges and stream beds. Tip: look for its distinctive white waxy luster compared to surrounding duller stones.