mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Opaque white to creamy
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary constituent of various rock types. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas and liquids trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. Also used as decorative stone, in landscaping, and sometimes as a source for gold mining prospecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most common varieties of crystalline quartz on Earth. Its white color is due to microscopic inclusions of water or CO2 that occurred during formation millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Found worldwide in varied geological terrains. Identify it by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. It is often found as veins in igneous or metamorphic mountain ranges.