mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White, cloudy
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or magma. The milky appearance is caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, silicon production, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or lapidary art.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz can sometimes contain trace amounts of gold, making it a target for prospectors.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white waxy appearance. Abundant in quartz veins and as pebbles in riverbeds worldwide.
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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