mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent Milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified May 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to translucent Milky, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal solutions in veins. It is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments globally, ranging from billions of years old to relatively recent deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone in necklaces and carvings, in glassmaking, as an abrasive, and in the electronics industry due to its piezoelectric properties.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its cloudy appearance from tiny fluid or gas bubbles trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white 'milky' color. Commonly found as pebbles in river beds or as massive veins in mountain ranges.