mineral

Milky Quartz with Iron Staining

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to yellowish-tan due to iron oxidation; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to yellowish-tan due to iron oxidation
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from hydrothermal solutions or cooling magma in veins and pegmatites. This specimen likely precipitated in a rock cavity or vein over millions of years and experienced secondary weathering causing iron-oxide staining.

Uses & applications

Used in electronics as a source of silicon, in glassmaking, as an abrasive, and frequently by collectors and spiritual practitioners.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white-to-tan color. Commonly found in mountainous regions, riverbeds, and as tailings in mining areas.

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