mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: White to cream/yellowish due to inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: White to cream/yellowish due to inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and sandpaper. Also used in construction aggregate and occasionally as a low-cost decorative stone or for metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz specifically is one of the most common varieties found in nature.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque color. It is omnipresent globally, often found in mountain streams and garden gravel.