mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Cloudy white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed during the final stages of magma crystallization in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as decorative stones or carvings in jewelry and landscaping.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and common milky white translucent appearance. Found globally in almost all geological environments.