mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent with yellowish iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent with yellowish iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent in igneous rocks. This specimen likely came from a vein. Quartz is found in almost all geological environments and ages.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in the glass industry, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative gravel or landscaping stones. Lower grade specimens are common for beginning collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its opaque appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent white appearance. Found worldwide in mountain ranges, stream beds, and beach sands.