mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent milky white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from hydrothermal solutions or the cooling of magma in veins and pegmatites. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz and is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments across all geological eras.
Uses & applications
Used as a gemstone (decorative), in glassmaking, ceramics, and as an abrasive. Large quantities are used in the construction industry as road fill or landscaping stone.
Geological facts
The milky white color is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas, liquid, or both, trapped during crystal formation. It is the primary precursor to many other quartz varieties.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage (it breaks in curved, shell-like patterns). It is ubiquitous and can be found in mountain ranges, stream beds, and gravel deposits worldwide.
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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