mineral
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent off-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Milky white to translucent off-white
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent off-white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and igneous rocks through crystallization of silica-rich solutions. Often found as water-worn beach or river pebbles.
Uses & applications
Used in glassmaking, ceramics, crushed stone for landscaping, decorative gravel, and gemstone carving/tumbling for amateur collectors.
Geological facts
The distinctive white cloudy appearance of milky quartz is caused by millions of microscopic gas and liquid inclusions trapped inside the crystal during its formation.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass readily), smooth water-rounded pebble shape, waxy-to-vitreous luster, and lack of visible cleavage. Extremely common along riverbeds, beaches, and gravel deposits worldwide.
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