Milky Quartz with Mineral Inclusions

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to yellowish with dark green/black patches; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed from hydrothermal veins or cooling magma where silica-rich fluids crystallized. The dark inclusions typically represent hydrothermal minerals like chlorite, hornblende, or mica that were trapped during growth.

Uses & Applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (as oscillators), abrasives, and as decorative stone or gravel in landscaping.

Geological Facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Its white color is caused by tiny bubbles of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's formation.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), opaque white color, and lack of cleavage. Often found in riverbeds or as veins in igneous rock outcrops.

Identified on: 5/2/2026

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