mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale, white to semi-translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale, white to semi-translucent color, vitreous to greasy luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. Milky appearance is caused by tiny gas or liquid fluid inclusions trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive, in glassmaking, as gravel and construction aggregate, and as lapidary material or ornamental stone for carving.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in Earth's continental crust. The cloudy white appearance is due to millions of microscopic fluid bubbles enclosed within the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its ability to easily scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, and translucent white color. Found almost everywhere worldwide, particularly along gravel roads, riverbeds, and pegmatite deposits.