mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal/hexagonal crystal system, white to off-white opaque color with minor dark inclusions, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 2.65.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 7, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal/hexagonal crystal system, white to off-white opaque color with minor dark inclusions, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms during hydrothermal mineralization, magmatic crystallization in pegmatites, or metamorphic processes across various geological periods.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an abrasive, in glass and ceramic manufacturing, as gemstone/carving material, and as collector specimens.
Geological facts
Milky quartz gets its cloudy white appearance from tiny fluid inclusions (water or gas bubbles) trapped during crystal growth millions of years ago.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass, cannot be scratched by steel), glassy to greasy luster, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage. Extremely common worldwide in granitic pegmatites and quartz veins.
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Mineral/Rock