mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.