mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent of igneous rocks like granite. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in construction as aggregate, in glassmaking, as a source of silicon for electronics, and widely as a decorative stone or healing crystal in alternative medicine.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically is common throughout the world and can often be found in large, vein-like deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass), white color, and lack of cleavage planes. It is often found as pebbles in stream beds or as massive white chunks in mountain ranges.