mineral

Milky Quartz Mineral

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich hot fluids. It can occur across many geological eras, from Precambrian to recent times.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction as an aggregate, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry or for decorative stone collections.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its characteristic white color from microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and typical white or cloudy appearance. It is found globally in mountainous regions and riverbeds.