mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in various geological environments, most commonly in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites as cooling fluids precipitate silica in rock cavities.
Uses & applications
Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as a popular specimen for beginner collectors and jewelry cabochons.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its white, opaque appearance from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white color. It is one of the most common minerals found in the Earth's crust worldwide.
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