mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White, cloudy
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal system); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed from the crystallization of molten magma or within hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and as a landscape stone or minor gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque color. Found globally in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
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
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock