mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to opaque
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth. Found in almost all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, as an abrasive, in electronics for its piezoelectric properties, in landscaping, and as a decorative stone/gemstone.

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

Identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. Often found in white veins within darker host rocks like granite or shale.