mineral
Milky quartz crystal
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no cleavage with conchoidal fracture. The specimen shows blocky/prismatic crystal faces and cloudy inclusions.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no cleavage with conchoidal fracture. The specimen shows blocky/prismatic crystal faces and cloudy inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or pegmatitic melts crystallize in cavities and veins. Quartz is widespread from Precambrian to modern geological settings.
Uses & applications
Used in glass, ceramics, electronics, abrasives, and ornamental objects; attractive crystals are collected but this cloudy specimen has modest gem value.
Geological facts
Its milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it is commonly found in veins, geodes, pegmatites, and placer gravels worldwide.
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