mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 16, 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 Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through the cooling of silica-rich magma or hydrothermal activity. Its milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in the glass-making industry, as an abrasive, in electronics (piezoelectric properties), and commonly as decorative landscaping stone or crystal healing specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The 'milky' white color is technically a defect caused by microscopic bubbles of water or CO2 that occurred millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its lack of cleavage, ability to scratch glass easily, and white waxy appearance. Can be found worldwide in gravel pits, riverbeds, and mountainous outcroppings.