mineral

Milky Quartz on Matrix

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white/tan, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white/tan, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites where silica-rich fluids cool and crystallize over millions of years. This specimen shows a quartz vein attached to a parent host rock (matrix).

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (piezoelectric properties), abrasives, and as decorative collector specimens.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from tiny inclusions of fluids or gas trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white color. Commonly found in mountainous regions or as pebbles in stream beds. Look for the distinct waxy/glassy luster.