mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to milky opaque, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified June 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: White to milky opaque, 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 through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. It is found in a wide range of geological environments, from ancient Precambrian shields to more recent mountain-building belts.

Uses & applications

Used in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), construction aggregates, and as decorative landscaping stones or semiprecious gemstones for jewelry.

Geological facts

Milky Quartz gets its characteristic cloudy appearance from millions of microscopic fluid inclusions of gas and liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white milky color. It is commonly found in riverbeds, gravel pits, and quartz veins in bedrock. Collectors look for large, well-formed terminated crystals.