mineral

Milky quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; white to translucent, vitreous luster, irregular conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and hexagonal crystal structure. The specimen appears as a rough, massive aggregate rather than distinct crystals.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids cool in fractures and cavities, or when quartz crystallizes in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Quartz is common from Precambrian to modern geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used in glass, ceramics, engineered stone, electronics, and abrasives; attractive translucent pieces are collected or used decoratively. This rough specimen has modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Milky appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or impurities scattering light. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and chemically resistant minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, lack of cleavage, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and white translucent appearance; it commonly occurs in granite, pegmatites, veins, and metamorphic rocks worldwide.