mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (source of silicon), abrasives, and as decorative stone in landscaping or jewelry.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its white appearance, and lack of cleavage. It is ubiquitous in mountainous regions and riverbeds worldwide.