mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to translucent
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and as a primary mineral in igneous rocks like granite. Its white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass making, ceramics, as a source for silicon, and in landscaping or decorative gravel.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz and can be found nearly everywhere globally.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its distinctive cloudy white appearance. It is found in abundance in mountains, streambeds, and desert floors.