mineral

Milky Quartz with Iron Inclusions

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Translucent white with yellow/orange iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Translucent white with yellow/orange iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a primary mineral in igneous rocks. The orange staining is caused by iron oxide (limonite or hematite) leaching into fractures.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, and as an abrasive. Specimens with iron staining are often collected by hobbyists as 'golden healer' quartz or 'limonite quartz' for metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Pure quartz is clear, but tiny fluid inclusions during formation give milky quartz its cloudy white appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent appearance. It is found globally, particularly in mountainous regions and riverbeds.

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