mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. The white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Common in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, construction aggregates, and occasionally as decorative stones, tumbled pebbles, or in crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It is often found as the 'mother rock' in gold-bearing veins. The white cloudiness is due to millions of microscopic fluid inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its white color, hardness (will scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. It is ubiquitous worldwide, especially in riverbeds, mountain ranges, and beaches.