mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

Mohs hardness 7, white/milky translucent appearance, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity ~2.65

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness 7, white/milky translucent appearance, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity ~2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms through hydrothermal crystallization, igneous crystallization in pegmatites and granites, and metamorphism. The milky white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, ceramics, electronics, as an abrasive, and widely collected as ornamental stones or healing crystals.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth. The bubbles causing its opacity can contain ancient fluids or gases preserved from millions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its hardness (scratches glass, cannot be scratched by a steel blade), lack of cleavage, and translucent white color. Found worldwide in quartz veins and granitic rocks.