mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified July 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites during the cooling of magma or through precipitation from hot, mineral-rich fluids. The cloudy white color is caused by microscopic fluid inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glass making, ceramics, as an abrasive, in the production of silicon, for architectural landscaping, and as a collector specimen or decorative stone.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz. Its white color is often likened to the appearance of frozen milk or ice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and milky opacity. It is found globally, especially in mountain ranges and gravel deposits. Key locations include the USA, Brazil, and Madagascar.