mineral
Milky Quartz Pebble
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Off-white to pale tan/milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often massive in pebbles). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: ~2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Off-white to pale tan/milky white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Off-white to pale tan/milky white. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often massive in pebbles). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: ~2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, subsequently eroded, rounded, and transported by water in riverbeds or coastal environments over thousands to millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in landscape decor, aquariums, glass manufacturing, abrasives, or as a basic pocket stone for lapidary enthusiasts and rockhounds.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its scratch resistance against glass/steel (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, milky off-white color, and smooth rounded pebble morphology. Very common worldwide in river gravels and beaches.
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