mineral

Milky Quartz

Crystalline Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

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

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich solutions in the Earth's crust over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative landscaping stone or pocket stones.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from tiny 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

Identified by its white color, inability to be scratched by a steel knife, and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in mountainous regions and riverbeds.