mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during the cooling of magma. The white color is caused by microscopic inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in the production of silicon alloys, and commonly as a decorative landscaping stone or for metaphysical/collecting purposes.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. It can sometimes contain small amounts of gold within its veins.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its white 'bony' color, and the lack of cleavage planes. It is found globally in almost all geological environments.