mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found in massive form); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to cloudy
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often found in massive form); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a major constituent in pegmatites and granitic rocks. It is found in geological environments ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, as landscaping stone, and occasionally for lapidary work and carvings.

Geological facts

The milky white color is caused by millions of tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its inability to be scratched by a steel knife, its characteristic white color, and glassy appearance. It is found globally in almost every mountainous or rocky environment.