mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White, translucent to semi-opaque greyish-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White, translucent to semi-opaque greyish-white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White, translucent to semi-opaque greyish-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the crystallization of silica-rich fluids during cooling of magma or metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics as oscillator crystals, manufacturing glass and ceramics, as an abrasive, and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Its white 'milky' appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its glass-like lustre, hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, and fracture surfaces. Extremely common worldwide.
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