mineral

Milky Quartz Chip

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to translucent gray. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: White to translucent gray
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: White to translucent gray. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite. Its milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as a landscape material or filler in construction. High-quality specimens are used in jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. It is highly resistant to chemical and physical weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white-to-gray color. It is nearly ubiquitous in mountainous and riverbed environments.