mineral

Milky quartz (白 quartz)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous-to-greasy luster, irregular fracture, and no cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The specimen appears massive and naturally fractured rather than well-crystallized.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky quartz (白 quartz) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks; individual crystals may range from ancient Precambrian to geologically recent. Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities.

Uses & applications

Used as a silica source for glass, ceramics, abrasives, and engineered stone; attractive pieces are collected or used decoratively. This rough specimen has little jewelry value unless it displays unusually clear areas or distinctive inclusions.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is chemically resistant to weathering. Milky quartz can resemble white calcite, but quartz is harder and does not effervesce in dilute hydrochloric acid.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins and granite, pegmatite, gneiss, and hydrothermal deposits worldwide, especially Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps. A steel file should not scratch it, while quartz can scratch glass; confirm with hardness and acid tests.