mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms from the cooling of hydrothermal veins or as a late-stage crystallization in felsic igneous rocks like pegmatites. It is found in geological settings ranging from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Used as a source of silica for glassmaking, an abrasive, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, and as a decorative stone in landscaping or jewelry.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth's crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Extremely abundant in mountainous regions and riverbeds worldwide.