mineral

Milky Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cloudy white to cream; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from the crystallization of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in veins or as a late-stage mineral in igneous pegmatites. The white color is caused by tiny inclusions of gas or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectricity), and as a landscaping stone or decorative specimen.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety of quartz and can be found in almost any geological environment.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and white cloudy appearance. Common worldwide in riverbeds, mountain ranges, and garden gravel.