
mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to cloudy translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- White to cloudy translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to cloudy translucent; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms during the final stages of hydrothermal or pegmatite crystallization. The milky appearance is caused by tiny liquid or gas inclusions trapped during crystal growth. Widely distributed across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used as an abrasive, in glass making, as a source of silicon for electronics, in construction as aggregate, and in landscaping or jewelry.
Geological facts
Milky Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. It can often contain trace amounts of gold within its veins in certain hydrothermal environments.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), white color, and distinctive conchoidal fracture. Often found in quartz veins or as river pebbles.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous