mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to creamy yellowish-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 Mohs
Color: White to creamy yellowish-white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: White to creamy yellowish-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milkiness is caused by minute fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, as an abrasive, in electronics (though usually clear quartz is preferred), landscaping, and as a common collectible specimen.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz and it is responsible for the white veins often seen in mountain ranges. Some specimens contain microscopic gold inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque appearance. Found globally in almost all geological environments, especially in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.