mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to pale gray; 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 pale gray
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, most often from hydrothermal veins or as a primary constituent of granitic pegmatites. The cloudy appearance is caused by tiny fluid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass making, as a source of silicon for electronics, and commonly as a decorative stone in landscaping or as a collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Historically, it was used by many indigenous groups to create stone tools and arrowheads when flint was unavailable.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and typical cloudy white appearance. It is found globally, especially in mountain ranges and riverbeds. Collectors should look for well-formed crystal points or translucent quality.