mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or as a constituent in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Milky quartz gets its cloudiness from tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glass making, as an abrasive, in the production of silicon metal, as landscaping stone, and occasionally in jewelry as cabochons.
Geological facts
Quartz is the most abundant and widely distributed mineral found at Earth's surface. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white 'milky' appearance. Commonly found in gravel pits, riverbeds, and as veins in mountains.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
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metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
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Granite
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Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
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mineral