mineral

Milky Quartz/White Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness (Mohs scale): 7; Color: White to pale tan/translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Color: White to pale tan/translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness (Mohs scale): 7; Color: White to pale tan/translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or pegmatites; found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments worldwide.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, semiconductor industry, electronics (piezoelectric properties), construction aggregate, and as a popular specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Its 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass (Hardness 7), lack of cleavage, and waxy/glassy appearance. It is ubiquitous in most mountain ranges and gravel deposits.