mineral

Milky Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to translucent creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to translucent creamy white
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to translucent creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms from hydrothermal veins or as a late-stage crystallization in igneous rocks. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. This specific specimen is water-worn, indicating erosion and transport in a river or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Used as a primary source of silica for glass and ceramics, as an abrasive, in construction as aggregate, and frequently collected as a lapidary material for tumbling.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's crust. It is often the primary constituent of white sand beaches. In some cultures, it has been used for hundreds of years in folk medicine and spiritual practices.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic 'cloudy' white appearance. It is found globally in almost all geological environments, especially in gravel beds and mountain streams.