mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or igneous pegmatites. The milky appearance is caused by tiny bubbles of gas or liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. Found in deposits ranging from Precambrian to recent ages.

Uses & applications

Used as a source for silicon, in glass production, as decorative landscaping stone, and in affordable jewelry or metaphysical crystal collecting.

Geological facts

Milky quartz is one of the most common varieties of crystalline quartz on Earth. Its white color is often referred to as 'snow quartz' in the gemstone trade.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white opaque color. Found globally, especially in mountain ranges and river beds.