mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, white to translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily from hydrothermal solutions in veins and cavities, as well as an essential component in many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Can form over millions of years in varying geological environments.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, abrasives, foundry sands, electronics (piezoelectric properties), and lapidary arts or specimen collecting.
Geological facts
Milky quartz is the most common variety of the quartz family. The milky appearance is caused by minute fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its white, cloudy appearance, high hardness (scratches glass), and conchoidal fracture. Found worldwide in almost all geological environments.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic