mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White/Translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- White/Translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White/Translucent; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes or igneous crystallization in pegmatites; milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions of gas or liquid.
Uses & applications
Used in silica glass manufacturing, precision optics, jewelry, and widely used for architectural decoration and landscaping.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It is often found in massive form as quartz veins rather than individual crystals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), white milky color, and lack of cleavage (conchoidal fracture). Often found as river-worn pebbles.
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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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous