mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often hexagonal prisms); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often hexagonal prisms); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins, or as a constituent in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), construction aggregate, and as a collector's specimen or decorative stone.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found in nature.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. It is found globally in almost every geological environment.
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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