mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

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

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Forms during the final stages of magmatic crystallization in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as a raw material for glass, ceramics, and electronics; also used in decorative landscaping, construction aggregate, and as a minor gemstone for beads or cabochons.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most abundant and widespread mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky Quartz specifically gets its opacity from microscopic fluid inclusions of water or CO2.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it can scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white, cloudy appearance. It is universally common across almost all geological terrains.