mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white/cream, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal System: Trigonal (Hexagonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to off-white/cream, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal System: Trigonal (Hexagonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Milky quartz specifically gets its opaque color from microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during the mineral's rapid growth from hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in the electronic industry (piezoelectric properties), and frequently as decorative landscaping stone or in jewelry.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. The bubbles of gas or liquid trapped within the crystal reflect light, giving it its cloudy white appearance rather than being transparent.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic waxy or vitreous luster. It is found in abundance worldwide, particularly in mountain ranges and riverbeds.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock