mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

Explore Milky Quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to cloudy; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the slow cooling of silica-rich hot fluids deep within the Earth's crust. It is a major constituent of igneous rocks like granite.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, abrasives, electronics (piezoelectric properties), jewelry (cabochons), and as a landscape decorative stone.

Geological facts

The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz found on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its white cloudy color, inability to be scratched by a steel knife, and glass-like luster on fresh breaks. Found globally in mountainous regions and riverbeds.