mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal System: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Specific Gravity: 2.65, Conchoidal fracture

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to opaque milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal System: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Specific Gravity: 2.65, Conchoidal fracture

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during the final stages of magma cooling, or through metamorphic processes where silicon-rich fluids crystallize. Its white color comes from minute fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as a flux in melting operations, as an abrasive, in the glass-making industry, and in some construction materials. Often used as decorative gravel or for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. While it lacks the transparency of rock crystal, it can contain traces of gold in certain hydrothermal vein systems.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its greasy luster, inability to be scratched by steel, and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in nearly every geological environment, especially in mountain ranges and gravel deposits.