mineral
Milky Quartz
Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky semi-translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Opaque white to milky semi-translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to milky semi-translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed during the crystallization of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal fluids filling veins in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. The milky appearance is caused by tiny fluid inclusions trapped during growth.
Uses & applications
Used as an abrasive, in glass manufacturing, electronics (silicon source), landscaping, and as decorative or mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz gets its cloudy white color from microscopic gas or liquid bubbles trapped within the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its hardness (scratches glass easily), lack of cleavage, white color, and typical conchoidal fracture. Extremely common worldwide in quartz veins, gravel beds, and pegmatites.
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