mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness: 7. Color: White to translucent. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness: 7. Color: White to translucent. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent of igneous rocks like granite. The milky white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, silicon production for electronics, and occasionally as decorative stone or in landscaping.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), white color, and the way it breaks into curved shell-like patterns (conchoidal fracture). It is found globally in almost all geological environments.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous