
mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 mohs. Color: Opaque white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 mohs
- Color
- Opaque white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 mohs. Color: Opaque white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent of igneous rocks like granite. The white color is caused by microscopic inclusions of fluids or gas trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative gemstones or landscape stones.
Geological facts
Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Historically, it was used by humans to make stone tools where flint was unavailable.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), white milky appearance, and lack of obvious cleavage. Often found near granite outcrops or in stream beds as tumbled pebbles.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
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Metamorphic
Epidote
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metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral