mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: 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
- White to opaque
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: 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 through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. It is found in a wide variety of geological environments and can be from any geological age.
Uses & applications
Used in the glassmaking and abrasive industries, as a decorative stone in landscaping, and in jewelry as cabochons or beads.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy white appearance from tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass), white color, and lack of cleavage. It is found globally in mountainous and metamorphic terrains.
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