mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma or from hydrothermal veins. The milky appearance is caused by tiny inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. In construction, it is used as an aggregate. It is also used as decorative landscaping stone and as a mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of crystalline quartz. Historically, it was used by ancient civilizations for making tools and ornaments.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white 'milky' appearance. It is found globally in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, often occurring in large veins.