mineral

Milky Quartz (Ferruginous)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to yellowish-tan due to iron inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to yellowish-tan due to iron inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich solutions. The yellowish tint comes from trace amounts of iron oxides (Hermatite or Limonite) trapped during growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, and as decorative stone or landscaping. Tumbled specimens are used in lapidary work and crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant and widespread mineral on Earth's surface. Milky quartz gets its cloudiness from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's formation.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Often found as rounded pebbles in stream beds or as veins in weathered granite outcrops. Common worldwide in diverse geological environments.