mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically white to translucent with a vitreous to sugary luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and hexagonal crystal structure. The granular, massive texture suggests interlocking quartz grains rather than a single crystal.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and silica-rich igneous or metamorphic rocks; individual specimens may range from Precambrian to geologically recent. This piece could also be quartz-rich vein material or quartzite.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and industrial silica; attractive pieces are collected, though milky quartz is rarely used as a high-value gemstone.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or other mineral impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy sparkle, hardness (it can scratch ordinary glass), lack of cleavage, and irregular conchoidal fracture. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the Alps, and U.S. hydrothermal districts.