mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Cloudy white to transluscent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Cloudy white to transluscent, Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a major constituent of many igneous rocks. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Uses & applications
Used in construction as aggregate, as a source of silica for glass and ceramics, and in jewelry/lapidary as cabochons or tumbled stones. High-purity quartz is used in electronics.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. It can sometimes contain microscopic 'bubbles' of water dating back millions of years. It is often found in gold-bearing veins.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), glassy appearance, and white cloudy color. It is nearly ubiquitous in mountain regions and river beds worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary