mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal crystal system, white/translucent color, and no distinct cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal crystal system, white/translucent color, and no distinct cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms from crystallizing hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and cooling magma; milky opacity is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions trapped during growth.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in tumbled stones, landscaping, decorative carvings, and as a source of silicon for optics and electronics.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's continental crust. Its white appearance is caused by millions of tiny gas or liquid bubbles.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its ability to scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, and translucent milky-white color; found globally in rivers, beaches, and pegmatite dikes.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous